Max's bookshelf: read en-US Tue, 13 Aug 2024 06:27:17 -0700 60 Max's bookshelf: read 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg <![CDATA[She Ain't It - Platinum Edition: How to Expose Damaged, Desperate, And Deceitful Women & Find Your Game Changer]]> 41139208 An eye opening guide for men looking to avoid Ms. Wrong. A must have for women ready to evolve into Ms. Right. Finally, a book that cuts through all that nice guy nonsense and tells you the truth about dating in the 21st century and how to sidestep manipulators, gold diggers, and users. She Ain’t It, will go step by step from how to meet women, first dates, sex dates, flirting skills, texting, and even the secrets to navigating dating apps and social media to find genuine women, not shallow little girls. You can’t afford to keep wasting your time with damaged goods and desperate ring chasers, it’s time to upgrade to the Master Level of dating and find your Game Changer Ladies, don't feel left out. This could easily be called “He Ain’t It” because these same lessons apply to WOMEN looking to upgrade themselves and attract quality men. Any woman that’s willing to take a hard look at her own life, can easily use the secrets and strategies in this book to Spartan Up and turn their lives around as well. Award Winning author G.L. Lambert has proven methods that have already helped countless men and women hit reset and reclaim their lives-- Now it's your time! Chapters Include How To Approach How To Win Her Back The 7 Types To Avoid How To Avoid Basic B**** Red Flags During A Relationship Bouncing Back From Rejection And So much more.... KINDLE, AUDIBLE, PAPERBACK available now]]> 277 G.L. Lambert Max 5 non-fiction, self-help
One of the standout qualities of this book is Lambert's unapologetic honesty. He delves deep into the behaviors and traits of damaged, desperate, and deceitful women, offering readers practical tools to identify and steer clear of these destructive influences. Lambert's writing is engaging, peppered with humor and real-life examples, making the concepts easy to understand and apply.

Moreover, the book doesn't only focus on pointing out negative traits but also provides a roadmap for attracting positive, high-quality partners – the 'game changers.' Lambert encourages readers to work on themselves, set boundaries, and cultivate self-respect, ultimately leading to healthier and more fulfilling relationships.

In a world where dating can be a minefield, "She Ain't It" is a beacon of light, guiding men towards authentic connections and away from relationships that drain their energy and self-worth. Whether you're a seasoned dater or new to the game, this book is a must-read that will empower you to make better choices in love and life.

---

Quotes from "She Ain't It":

1. "You can't turn a bad woman good, but a good woman can turn a bad man good."
2. "Stop giving girlfriend benefits to women who are only giving you late-night booty calls."
3. "Know your worth so you can stop giving discounts."
4. "A woman who doesn't respect herself will never respect you."
5. "Real queens fix each other's crowns."

---

Types of Women to Avoid:

1. **The Drama Queen**: Constantly creates unnecessary drama and turmoil in your life.
2. **The Gold Digger**: Seeks you out for financial gain rather than genuine connection.
3. **The Manipulator**: Uses emotional manipulation to control and influence your decisions.
4. **The Attention Seeker**: Craves constant validation and attention, often at the expense of your needs.
5. **The Commitment-Phobe**: Unable or unwilling to commit to a serious, long-term relationship.
6. **The Narcissist**: Self-centered and lacks empathy, making the relationship one-sided and draining.

By being aware of these types and their associated behaviors, readers of "She Ain't It" can navigate the dating world more clearly and confidently, ultimately leading to healthier and more fulfilling relationships.]]> 4.38 She Ain't It - Platinum Edition: How to Expose Damaged, Desperate, And Deceitful Women & Find Your Game Changer
author: G.L. Lambert
name: Max
average rating: 4.38
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2024/08/13
date added: 2024/08/13
shelves: non-fiction, self-help
review:
She Ain't It: How to Expose Damaged, Desperate, and Deceitful Women and Attract Your Game Changer**" by G. L. Lambert is an eye-opening and empowering guide for men navigating the complexities of modern dating. Lambert's no-nonsense approach and candid advice provide invaluable insights into recognizing and avoiding toxic relationships while empowering readers to attract healthier, more fulfilling connections.

One of the standout qualities of this book is Lambert's unapologetic honesty. He delves deep into the behaviors and traits of damaged, desperate, and deceitful women, offering readers practical tools to identify and steer clear of these destructive influences. Lambert's writing is engaging, peppered with humor and real-life examples, making the concepts easy to understand and apply.

Moreover, the book doesn't only focus on pointing out negative traits but also provides a roadmap for attracting positive, high-quality partners – the 'game changers.' Lambert encourages readers to work on themselves, set boundaries, and cultivate self-respect, ultimately leading to healthier and more fulfilling relationships.

In a world where dating can be a minefield, "She Ain't It" is a beacon of light, guiding men towards authentic connections and away from relationships that drain their energy and self-worth. Whether you're a seasoned dater or new to the game, this book is a must-read that will empower you to make better choices in love and life.

---

Quotes from "She Ain't It":

1. "You can't turn a bad woman good, but a good woman can turn a bad man good."
2. "Stop giving girlfriend benefits to women who are only giving you late-night booty calls."
3. "Know your worth so you can stop giving discounts."
4. "A woman who doesn't respect herself will never respect you."
5. "Real queens fix each other's crowns."

---

Types of Women to Avoid:

1. **The Drama Queen**: Constantly creates unnecessary drama and turmoil in your life.
2. **The Gold Digger**: Seeks you out for financial gain rather than genuine connection.
3. **The Manipulator**: Uses emotional manipulation to control and influence your decisions.
4. **The Attention Seeker**: Craves constant validation and attention, often at the expense of your needs.
5. **The Commitment-Phobe**: Unable or unwilling to commit to a serious, long-term relationship.
6. **The Narcissist**: Self-centered and lacks empathy, making the relationship one-sided and draining.

By being aware of these types and their associated behaviors, readers of "She Ain't It" can navigate the dating world more clearly and confidently, ultimately leading to healthier and more fulfilling relationships.
]]> All the Sinners Bleed 61884832 A Black sheriff. A serial killer. A small town ready to combust.

Titus Crown is the first Black sheriff in the history of Charon County, Virginia. In recent decades, Charon has had only two murders. After years of working as an FBI agent, Titus knows better than anyone that while his hometown might seem like a land of moonshine, cornbread, and honeysuckle, secrets always fester under the surface.

Then a year to the day after Titus’s election, a school teacher is killed by a former student and the student is fatally shot by Titus’s deputies. Those festering secrets are now out in the open and ready to tear the town apart.

As Titus investigates the shootings, he unearths terrible crimes and a serial killer who has been hiding in plain sight, haunting the dirt lanes and woodland clearings of Charon. With the killer’s possible connections to a local church and the town’s harrowing history weighing on him, Titus projects confidence about closing the case while concealing a painful secret from his own past. At the same time, he also has to contend with a far-right group that wants to hold a parade in celebration of the town’s Confederate history.

Powerful and unforgettable, All the Sinners Bleed confirms S. A. Cosby as “one of the most muscular, distinctive, grab-you-by-both-ears voices in American crime fiction” (The Washington Post).]]> 338 S.A. Cosby 1250831911 Max 0 4.18 2023 All the Sinners Bleed
author: S.A. Cosby
name: Max
average rating: 4.18
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/07/18
shelves: black-authors, fiction, mystery, currently-reading
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Personality Types: Using the Enneagram for Self-Discovery]]> 311071 544 Don Richard Riso 0395798671 Max 0 4.17 1987 Personality Types: Using the Enneagram for Self-Discovery
author: Don Richard Riso
name: Max
average rating: 4.17
book published: 1987
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/07/18
shelves: non-fiction, philosophy, psychology, self-help, currently-reading
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Energy Paradox: What to Do When Your Get-Up-and-Go Has Got Up and Gone]]> 53739867 The author of the bestselling Plant Paradox series takes a fresh look at one of the top health issues plaguing Americans—fatigue—and offers a revolutionary plan for boosting energy and revitalizing mental and physical stamina.

In his bestselling books, The Plant Paradox and The Longevity Paradox, Dr. Steven R. Gundry offered game-changing perspectives on our wellbeing. In The Energy Paradox, Dr. Gundry expands upon his previous discussions of gut, microbiome, and mitochondrial health, linking immune malfunction to the mental and physical symptoms of fatigue—including exhaustion, brain fog, depression, anxiety, and low metabolism.

As Dr. Gundry explains, feeling tired, moody, and zapped of energy is not normal, no matter your workload or age. Fatigue is an SOS flare from the body, one that is intended to alert us that something is wrong. In his clinical work, Dr. Gundry has found that his patients who complain of feeling sick and tired all the time almost always have something in the inflammation markers of a leaky gut.

In The Energy Paradox, Dr. Gundry will offer readers the information and tools necessary to quiet the autoimmune battle raging within—a battle that depletes precious energy reserves, leaving you drained and prone to mood disorders and weight gain. With new guidelines on how to increase mitochondrial energy production and nourish the microbiome; 30 new Plant Paradox-approved recipes; and lists of energy-boosting foods to consume and energy-depleting foods to avoid, The Energy Paradox will help readers take back their lives, giving them the energy they need to feel, look, and be their best.Ěý]]> 331 Steven R. Gundry 0063005743 Max 0 3.52 The Energy Paradox: What to Do When Your Get-Up-and-Go Has Got Up and Gone
author: Steven R. Gundry
name: Max
average rating: 3.52
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/07/17
shelves: health, non-fiction, food, currently-reading
review:

]]> ShĹŤgun (Asian Saga, #1) 52382796
Powerful and engrossing, capturing both the rich pageantry and stark realities of life in feudal Japan, ShĹŤgun is a critically acclaimed powerhouse of a book. Heart-stopping, edge-of-your-seat action melds seamlessly with intricate historical detail and raw human emotion. Endlessly compelling, this sweeping saga captivated the world to become not only one of the best-selling novels of all time but also one of the highest-rated television miniseries, as well as inspiring a nationwide surge of interest in the culture of Japan. Shakespearean in both scope and depth, ShĹŤgun is, as the New York Times put it, "...not only something you read--you live it." Provocative, absorbing, and endlessly fascinating, there is only one: ShĹŤgun.]]> 1152 James Clavell 1982603844 Max 0 fiction, currently-reading 4.42 1975 ShĹŤgun (Asian Saga, #1)
author: James Clavell
name: Max
average rating: 4.42
book published: 1975
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/07/17
shelves: fiction, currently-reading
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Defining Moments: Black and White]]> 53338965 description
description
When the prestigious law firm of Wayne, Rothstein, and Lincoln catches two major cases—a rape case where a White NBA star allegedly raped a Black stripper, and a murder case where a Black rapper allegedly killed a gay couple and two policemen—Bill O'Neil and Ben Turner are tasked to handle these racially charged litigations. The cases hit emotional chords with the two lawyers and force them to reckon with their interracial relationships and families. Will the racial tension of their cases destroy them or make them stronger?]]> 352 Ben Burgess Jr. 1645560457 Max 0 4.75 2017 Defining Moments: Black and White
author: Ben Burgess Jr.
name: Max
average rating: 4.75
book published: 2017
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/07/17
shelves: black-authors, erotica, fiction, currently-reading
review:

]]> <![CDATA[New Suns: Original Speculative Fiction by People of Color]]> 40680117 New Suns: Original Speculative Fiction by People of Color showcases emerging and seasoned writers of many races telling stories filled with shocking delights, powerful visions of the familiar made strange.Ěý Between this book’s covers burn tales of science fiction, fantasy, horror, and their indefinable overlappings.Ěý ĚýThese are authors aware of our many possible pasts and futures, authors freed of stereotypes and clichĂ©d expectations, ready to dazzle you with their daring genius

Unexploited brilliance shines forth from every page.Ěý

Includes stories by Kathleen Alcala, Minsoo Kang, Anil Menon, Silvia Moreno-Garcia, Alex Jennings, Alberto Yanez, Steven Barnes, Jaymee Goh, Karin Lowachee, E. Lily Yu, Andrea Hairston, Tobias Buckell, Hiromi Goto, Rebecca Roanhorse, Indrapramit Das, Chinelo Onwualu and Darcie Little Badger.

Foreword, LeVar Burton
The Galactic Tourist Industrial Complex, Tobias S. Buckell
Deer Dancer, Kathleen Alcala
The Virtue of Unfaithful Translations, Minsoo Kang
Come Home to Atropos, Steven Barnes
The Fine Print, Chinelo Onwualu
unkind of mercy, Alex Jennings
Burn the Ships, Alberto Yanez
The Freedom of the Shifting Sea, Jaymee Goh
Three Variations on a Theme of Imperial Attire, E. Lily Yu
Blood and Bells, Karin Lowachee
Give Me Your Black Wings Oh Sister, Silvia Moreno-Garcia
The Shadow We Cast Through Time, Indrapramit Das
The Robots of Eden, Anil Menon
Dumb House, Andrea Hairston
One Easy Trick, Hiromi Goto
Harvest, Rebecca Roanhorse
Kelsey and the Burdened Breath, Darcie Little Badger
Afterword, Nisi Shawl]]> 279 Nisi Shawl 1781085781 Max 4
Each story in "Suns" is a unique and imaginative journey that transports the reader to familiar and otherworldly worlds. From futuristic societies to magical realms, the stories in this anthology explore a wide range of themes, including identity, culture, power, and the human experience. The authors skillfully weave together elements of science fiction, fantasy, and horror to create captivating and thought-provoking narratives that will stay with you long after you finish reading.

What sets "Suns" apart is not only the quality of the writing but also the range of perspectives and experiences represented in the stories. The authors in this anthology offer fresh and innovative takes on the speculative fiction genre, challenging traditional narratives and pushing boundaries in exciting ways. Readers will find themselves immersed in worlds that are both familiar and fantastical, confronting complex issues and exploring new possibilities through the lens of diverse voices.

"Suns" is a must-read for speculative fiction fans and anyone looking for captivating stories that reflect the richness and diversity of human experience. This anthology is a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of amplifying marginalized voices in literature. It is a celebration of creativity, imagination, and the endless possibilities of speculative fiction.

In conclusion, "Suns" is a remarkable collection that deserves a place on the bookshelf of every speculative fiction enthusiast. It is a testament to the talent and creativity of authors of color and a shining example of the transformative power of diverse storytelling. I highly recommend this anthology to anyone seeking original and engaging speculative fiction that challenges conventions and expands the boundaries of the genre.]]> 3.85 2019 New Suns: Original Speculative Fiction by People of Color
author: Nisi Shawl
name: Max
average rating: 3.85
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2024/07/17
date added: 2024/07/17
shelves: black-authors, fiction, science-fiction
review:
"Suns" is a groundbreaking anthology that combines a stunning collection of original speculative fiction stories written by talented authors of color. This book is a true gem that showcases the diverse voices and rich storytelling traditions within the speculative fiction genre.

Each story in "Suns" is a unique and imaginative journey that transports the reader to familiar and otherworldly worlds. From futuristic societies to magical realms, the stories in this anthology explore a wide range of themes, including identity, culture, power, and the human experience. The authors skillfully weave together elements of science fiction, fantasy, and horror to create captivating and thought-provoking narratives that will stay with you long after you finish reading.

What sets "Suns" apart is not only the quality of the writing but also the range of perspectives and experiences represented in the stories. The authors in this anthology offer fresh and innovative takes on the speculative fiction genre, challenging traditional narratives and pushing boundaries in exciting ways. Readers will find themselves immersed in worlds that are both familiar and fantastical, confronting complex issues and exploring new possibilities through the lens of diverse voices.

"Suns" is a must-read for speculative fiction fans and anyone looking for captivating stories that reflect the richness and diversity of human experience. This anthology is a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of amplifying marginalized voices in literature. It is a celebration of creativity, imagination, and the endless possibilities of speculative fiction.

In conclusion, "Suns" is a remarkable collection that deserves a place on the bookshelf of every speculative fiction enthusiast. It is a testament to the talent and creativity of authors of color and a shining example of the transformative power of diverse storytelling. I highly recommend this anthology to anyone seeking original and engaging speculative fiction that challenges conventions and expands the boundaries of the genre.
]]> <![CDATA[The Black Cabinet: The Untold Story of African Americans and Politics During the Age of Roosevelt]]> 52746469
Jill Watts's The Black Cabinet is a dramatic full-scale examination of a forgotten moment that speaks directly to our own.]]> 560 Jill Watts 0802129102 Max 4
One of the most striking aspects of this book is the way Watts brings to life the names and stories of black politicians who played instrumental roles in shaping historical events. From figures like Mary McLeod Bethune and Robert C. Weaver to William H. Hastie and Ralph Bunche, these trailblazing individuals come alive on the pages, their struggles, triumphs, and contributions to the political landscape vividly portrayed.

Watts skillfully weaves together narratives of resilience, determination, and political acumen, showing how the Black Cabinet worked tirelessly behind the scenes to advance civil rights, economic justice, and equality for African Americans during a tumultuous period in American history. Through their advocacy and strategic engagement with the Roosevelt administration, these unsung heroes made significant strides in challenging systemic racism and paving the way for future generations of black leaders.

"The Black Cabinet" is not just a history book; it is a testament to the power of activism, collaboration, and perseverance in the face of adversity. By bringing to light this hidden history, Watts invites readers to reconsider and appreciate the contributions of African Americans to the political landscape of the 20th century.

In conclusion, Jill Watts' "The Black Cabinet" is a must-read for anyone interested in American history, civil rights, and the enduring legacy of African American political leadership. With meticulous research, engaging storytelling, and a deep respect for its subjects, this book shines a light on a crucial chapter in our nation's past. It offers valuable insights into the present and future.]]> 4.08 2020 The Black Cabinet: The Untold Story of African Americans and Politics During the Age of Roosevelt
author: Jill Watts
name: Max
average rating: 4.08
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2024/07/17
date added: 2024/07/17
shelves: biography, economics, history, non-fiction, political
review:
Jill Watts' "The Black Cabinet" is a captivating and enlightening exploration of a pivotal yet often overlooked chapter in American history. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Watts sheds light on the untold story of African Americans and their significant role in politics during the era of President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

One of the most striking aspects of this book is the way Watts brings to life the names and stories of black politicians who played instrumental roles in shaping historical events. From figures like Mary McLeod Bethune and Robert C. Weaver to William H. Hastie and Ralph Bunche, these trailblazing individuals come alive on the pages, their struggles, triumphs, and contributions to the political landscape vividly portrayed.

Watts skillfully weaves together narratives of resilience, determination, and political acumen, showing how the Black Cabinet worked tirelessly behind the scenes to advance civil rights, economic justice, and equality for African Americans during a tumultuous period in American history. Through their advocacy and strategic engagement with the Roosevelt administration, these unsung heroes made significant strides in challenging systemic racism and paving the way for future generations of black leaders.

"The Black Cabinet" is not just a history book; it is a testament to the power of activism, collaboration, and perseverance in the face of adversity. By bringing to light this hidden history, Watts invites readers to reconsider and appreciate the contributions of African Americans to the political landscape of the 20th century.

In conclusion, Jill Watts' "The Black Cabinet" is a must-read for anyone interested in American history, civil rights, and the enduring legacy of African American political leadership. With meticulous research, engaging storytelling, and a deep respect for its subjects, this book shines a light on a crucial chapter in our nation's past. It offers valuable insights into the present and future.
]]> <![CDATA[A Rainbow in the Night: The Tumultuous Birth of South Africa]]> 7019111 apartheid, it was a poisonous system that would only end with the liberation from prison of one of the moral giants of our time, Nelson Mandela.A Rainbow in the Night is Dominique Lapierre’s epic account of South Africa’s tragic history and the heroic men and women—famous and obscure, white and black, European and African—who have, with their blood and tears, brought to life the country that is today known as the Rainbow Nation.]]> 320 Dominique Lapierre 0306818477 Max 4
Key Historical Events:

1. The establishment of apartheid policies in South Africa, which institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination.

2. The Sharpeville Massacre in 1960, where peaceful protestors were shot by police, leading to international condemnation.

3. The Rivonia Trial in 1963-1964, where Nelson Mandela and other anti-apartheid activists were sentenced to life in prison.

4. The Soweto Uprising in 1976 was a pivotal moment in the struggle against apartheid, led by black students protesting against using Afrikaans in schools.

5. The release of Nelson Mandela from prison in 1990 marked the beginning of the end of apartheid.

Racist Ideas:
Throughout the book, Lapierre explores the profoundly ingrained racist ideas that underpin the apartheid system in South Africa. These included:

1. Beliefs in the superiority of the white race and the inferiority of black South Africans.

2. Justifications for segregation based on racial stereotypes and prejudices.

3. Systematic discrimination against non-white populations in all aspects of life, including education, employment, and social opportunities.

Overall, "A Rainbow in the Night: The Tumultuous Birth of South Africa" is a powerful and thought-provoking book that delves into the complexities of South Africa's history, highlighting the struggles against racism and oppression. Lapierre's storytelling prowess and deep research make this book a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the challenges faced by the people of South Africa in their quest for freedom and equality.]]> 4.03 2008 A Rainbow in the Night: The Tumultuous Birth of South Africa
author: Dominique Lapierre
name: Max
average rating: 4.03
book published: 2008
rating: 4
read at: 2024/07/17
date added: 2024/07/17
shelves: biography, economics, favorites, history, non-fiction
review:
"A Rainbow in the Night: The Tumultuous Birth of South Africa" by Dominique Lapierre is a captivating and poignant account of the turbulent history of South Africa, especially during the era of apartheid. Lapierre skillfully weaves together historical facts, personal stories, and political insights to create a compelling narrative that sheds light on the immense challenges faced by the people of South Africa during this dark period.

Key Historical Events:

1. The establishment of apartheid policies in South Africa, which institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination.

2. The Sharpeville Massacre in 1960, where peaceful protestors were shot by police, leading to international condemnation.

3. The Rivonia Trial in 1963-1964, where Nelson Mandela and other anti-apartheid activists were sentenced to life in prison.

4. The Soweto Uprising in 1976 was a pivotal moment in the struggle against apartheid, led by black students protesting against using Afrikaans in schools.

5. The release of Nelson Mandela from prison in 1990 marked the beginning of the end of apartheid.

Racist Ideas:
Throughout the book, Lapierre explores the profoundly ingrained racist ideas that underpin the apartheid system in South Africa. These included:

1. Beliefs in the superiority of the white race and the inferiority of black South Africans.

2. Justifications for segregation based on racial stereotypes and prejudices.

3. Systematic discrimination against non-white populations in all aspects of life, including education, employment, and social opportunities.

Overall, "A Rainbow in the Night: The Tumultuous Birth of South Africa" is a powerful and thought-provoking book that delves into the complexities of South Africa's history, highlighting the struggles against racism and oppression. Lapierre's storytelling prowess and deep research make this book a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the challenges faced by the people of South Africa in their quest for freedom and equality.
]]> <![CDATA[Plays Well with Others: The Surprising Science Behind Why Everything You Know About Relationships Is (Mostly) Wrong]]> 58782858 304 Eric Barker 0063050943 Max 5
"Plays Well with Others" by Eric Barker is a captivating and insightful exploration of the science behind relationships, challenging common assumptions and offering a fresh perspective on how we interact with others. Barker delves into the complexities of human relationships, drawing on research from various fields to shed light on why our conventional wisdom about relationships may be flawed.

One of the book's strengths is Barker's engaging writing style, which makes complex scientific concepts accessible and relatable to a broad audience. Through storytelling, research findings, and practical advice, he provides readers valuable insights into navigating relationships more effectively.

Barker's exploration of communication, trust, conflict resolution, and emotional intelligence is informative and thought-provoking. By challenging readers to rethink their relationship beliefs, he encourages them to adopt new strategies for building stronger connections with others.

Overall, "Plays Well with Others" is a must-read for anyone interested in deepening their understanding of human relationships and improving the quality of their interactions with others. Eric Barker's blend of science, storytelling, and practical wisdom makes this book a valuable resource for personal growth and development.

### Quotes from "Plays Well with Others":

1. "It's not about finding the perfect partner but becoming the right one."

2. "Conflict isn't necessarily a bad thing in a relationship; it's how we handle it that matters."

3. "Listening is not waiting for your turn to speak; it's about understanding the other person's perspective."

4. "Trust is the currency of relationships; without it, the connection crumbles."

5. "Emotional intelligence is the key to successful relationships; it's not just about what you say, but how you say it."

6. "Vulnerability is not a weakness; it's a strength that deepens our connections with others."

7. "Understanding the needs of others is essential for building strong and lasting relationships."

These quotes from "Plays Well with Others" encapsulate the book's central themes and offer valuable insights into the dynamics of human relationships.]]> 4.04 Plays Well with Others: The Surprising Science Behind Why Everything You Know About Relationships Is (Mostly) Wrong
author: Eric Barker
name: Max
average rating: 4.04
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2024/07/17
date added: 2024/07/17
shelves: non-fiction, psychology, self-help
review:
"Plays Well with Others" by Eric Barker

"Plays Well with Others" by Eric Barker is a captivating and insightful exploration of the science behind relationships, challenging common assumptions and offering a fresh perspective on how we interact with others. Barker delves into the complexities of human relationships, drawing on research from various fields to shed light on why our conventional wisdom about relationships may be flawed.

One of the book's strengths is Barker's engaging writing style, which makes complex scientific concepts accessible and relatable to a broad audience. Through storytelling, research findings, and practical advice, he provides readers valuable insights into navigating relationships more effectively.

Barker's exploration of communication, trust, conflict resolution, and emotional intelligence is informative and thought-provoking. By challenging readers to rethink their relationship beliefs, he encourages them to adopt new strategies for building stronger connections with others.

Overall, "Plays Well with Others" is a must-read for anyone interested in deepening their understanding of human relationships and improving the quality of their interactions with others. Eric Barker's blend of science, storytelling, and practical wisdom makes this book a valuable resource for personal growth and development.

### Quotes from "Plays Well with Others":

1. "It's not about finding the perfect partner but becoming the right one."

2. "Conflict isn't necessarily a bad thing in a relationship; it's how we handle it that matters."

3. "Listening is not waiting for your turn to speak; it's about understanding the other person's perspective."

4. "Trust is the currency of relationships; without it, the connection crumbles."

5. "Emotional intelligence is the key to successful relationships; it's not just about what you say, but how you say it."

6. "Vulnerability is not a weakness; it's a strength that deepens our connections with others."

7. "Understanding the needs of others is essential for building strong and lasting relationships."

These quotes from "Plays Well with Others" encapsulate the book's central themes and offer valuable insights into the dynamics of human relationships.
]]> <![CDATA[The Great Trials of World History and the Lessons They Teach Us]]> 37881490 No understanding of the past is complete without an understanding of the legal battles and struggles that have done so much to shape it. Inside a survey of world history's greatest trials are the key insights to critical issues we still talk about today, including freedom of speech, the death penalty, religious freedom, and the meaning of equality.

Join Professor Linder for these 24 lectures that investigate important legal cases from around the world and across the centuries. From the trials of Socrates in ancient Athens and Thomas More in Henry VIII's England to the Nuremburg Trials in the wake of World War II and the media frenzy of the O. J. Simpson murder case, you'll discover what each of these trials has to teach us about ourselves and our civilization.

Professor Linder takes you back in time to revisit some of history's most famous trials from fresh perspectives that ground them in the evolution of human ideas of law and justice, including the Salem Witch Trials, and the Scopes "Monkey" Trial. You'll also encounter less familiar (but equally important) legal battles, including medieval trials by ordeal and the Trial of Giordano Bruno, which would impact the later trial of Galileo.

For years, Professor Linder has studied the fascinating intersection between history and jurisprudence. Now he's crafted these lectures to share that fascination with you.]]> 13 Douglas O. Linder Max 4
One of the standout features of this series is its comprehensive coverage of a diverse range of trials, from ancient times to the modern era, spanning different continents and legal systems. Through detailed analyses and expert commentary, viewers are given a profound understanding of the historical context, legal principles, and societal implications of each trial discussed.

The instructors of "The Great Trials of World History" are distinguished scholars and experts in their respective fields, ensuring that the content is not only informative but also engaging and thought-provoking. Their lucid explanations and compelling storytelling breathe life into these historical trials, making them accessible to learners of all backgrounds and interests.

Moreover, the series does an excellent job of highlighting the enduring relevance of these trials to contemporary issues and debates in law and justice. By drawing parallels between past and present legal challenges, viewers are encouraged to reflect on the evolution of legal systems and the enduring quest for justice in society.

Whether you are a history buff, a legal enthusiast, or simply curious about the intersection of law and society, "The Great Trials of World History" offers a rich and rewarding learning experience. Through its meticulous research, engaging presentation, and thought-provoking content, this series is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who embarks on this educational journey.

In conclusion, "The Great Trials of World History" is a must-watch for anyone interested in delving into the fascinating world of historical trials and their enduring impact on the fabric of human society. This series stands as a testament to the power of knowledge and understanding in illuminating the complexities of our shared past and shaping a more informed future.]]> 3.95 2017 The Great Trials of World History and the Lessons They Teach Us
author: Douglas O. Linder
name: Max
average rating: 3.95
book published: 2017
rating: 4
read at: 2024/06/08
date added: 2024/06/08
shelves: biography, history, non-fiction, philosophy
review:
Embark on an intellectually stimulating voyage through the annals of history with "The Great Trials of World History," a captivating series offered by The Great Courses. This collection of lessons delves into the most pivotal trials that have shaped the course of human civilization, offering insights into the complexities of law, justice, and society across different time periods and cultures.

One of the standout features of this series is its comprehensive coverage of a diverse range of trials, from ancient times to the modern era, spanning different continents and legal systems. Through detailed analyses and expert commentary, viewers are given a profound understanding of the historical context, legal principles, and societal implications of each trial discussed.

The instructors of "The Great Trials of World History" are distinguished scholars and experts in their respective fields, ensuring that the content is not only informative but also engaging and thought-provoking. Their lucid explanations and compelling storytelling breathe life into these historical trials, making them accessible to learners of all backgrounds and interests.

Moreover, the series does an excellent job of highlighting the enduring relevance of these trials to contemporary issues and debates in law and justice. By drawing parallels between past and present legal challenges, viewers are encouraged to reflect on the evolution of legal systems and the enduring quest for justice in society.

Whether you are a history buff, a legal enthusiast, or simply curious about the intersection of law and society, "The Great Trials of World History" offers a rich and rewarding learning experience. Through its meticulous research, engaging presentation, and thought-provoking content, this series is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who embarks on this educational journey.

In conclusion, "The Great Trials of World History" is a must-watch for anyone interested in delving into the fascinating world of historical trials and their enduring impact on the fabric of human society. This series stands as a testament to the power of knowledge and understanding in illuminating the complexities of our shared past and shaping a more informed future.
]]> <![CDATA[The Autobiography of Malcolm X]]> 92057
Through a life of passion and struggle, Malcolm X became one of the most influential figures of the 20th Century. In this riveting account, he tells of his journey from a prison cell to Mecca, describing his transition from hoodlum to Muslim minister. Here, the man who called himself "the angriest Black man in America" relates how his conversion to true Islam helped him confront his rage and recognize the brotherhood of all mankind.

An established classic of modern America, "The Autobiography of Malcolm X" was hailed by the New York Times as "Extraordinary. A brilliant, painful, important book." Still extraordinary, still important, this electrifying story has transformed Malcolm X's life into his legacy. The strength of his words, and the power of his ideas continue to resonate more than a generation after they first appeared.]]> 466 Malcolm X Max 5
Here are some poignant quotes from the book that capture the essence of Malcolm X's journey:

1. "We declare our right on this earth to be a man, to be a human being, to be respected as a human being, to be given the rights of a human being in this society, on this earth, in this day, which we intend to bring into existence by any means necessary."

2. "I'm for truth, no matter who tells it. I'm for justice, no matter who it's for or against."

3. "The future belongs to those who prepare for it today."

4. "Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today."

5. "You can't separate peace from freedom because no one can be at peace unless he has his freedom."

In "The Autobiography of Malcolm X," readers are not only exposed to the turbulent history of racial injustice in America but also to the personal struggles and growth of a man who dared to challenge the status quo and fight for equality. Malcolm X's journey from a troubled youth to a powerful advocate for change serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance, self-reflection, and the pursuit of justice.

Alex Haley's skillful storytelling and Malcolm X's compelling narrative make this book a must-read for anyone interested in the civil rights movement, personal transformation, or the complexities of race relations in America. "The Autobiography of Malcolm X" is a timeless classic that continues to inspire and provoke readers to this day.]]> 4.35 1965 The Autobiography of Malcolm X
author: Malcolm X
name: Max
average rating: 4.35
book published: 1965
rating: 5
read at: 2024/06/08
date added: 2024/06/08
shelves: biography, black-authors, favorites, history, non-fiction, philosophy
review:
"The Autobiography of Malcolm X" is a powerful and thought-provoking book that chronicles the life of one of the most influential figures in American history. Written with raw honesty and insight by Alex Haley, this book takes readers on a journey through Malcolm X's transformation from a troubled youth to a charismatic leader in the civil rights movement.

Here are some poignant quotes from the book that capture the essence of Malcolm X's journey:

1. "We declare our right on this earth to be a man, to be a human being, to be respected as a human being, to be given the rights of a human being in this society, on this earth, in this day, which we intend to bring into existence by any means necessary."

2. "I'm for truth, no matter who tells it. I'm for justice, no matter who it's for or against."

3. "The future belongs to those who prepare for it today."

4. "Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today."

5. "You can't separate peace from freedom because no one can be at peace unless he has his freedom."

In "The Autobiography of Malcolm X," readers are not only exposed to the turbulent history of racial injustice in America but also to the personal struggles and growth of a man who dared to challenge the status quo and fight for equality. Malcolm X's journey from a troubled youth to a powerful advocate for change serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance, self-reflection, and the pursuit of justice.

Alex Haley's skillful storytelling and Malcolm X's compelling narrative make this book a must-read for anyone interested in the civil rights movement, personal transformation, or the complexities of race relations in America. "The Autobiography of Malcolm X" is a timeless classic that continues to inspire and provoke readers to this day.
]]> <![CDATA[Parable of the Sower: A Graphic Novel Adaptation]]> 43908991 The follow-up to #1 New York Times µţ±đ˛őłŮ˛ő±đ±ô±ô±đ°ůĚýKindred: A Graphic Novel Adaptation, comes Octavia E. Butler’s groundbreaking dystopian novel

In this graphic novel adaptation of Octavia E. Butler’s Parable of the SowerĚýby Damian Duffy and John Jennings, the award-winning team behind Kindred: A Graphic Novel Adaptation, the author portrays a searing vision of America’s future. In the year 2024, the country is marred by unattended environmental and economic crises that lead to social chaos. Lauren Olamina, a preacher’s daughter living in Los Angeles, is protected from danger by the walls of her gated community. However, in a night of fire and death, what begins as a fight for survival soon leads to something much more: a startling vision of human destiny . . . and the birth of a new faith.]]> 266 Damian Duffy 1419731335 Max 5 Octavia Butler's tale draws near.
"Parable of the Sower," a gem so rare,
A parable of hope in despair.

Meet Lauren Olamina, a beacon bright,
Amidst chaos and endless night.
Her words a seed in a barren land,
A prophetess with a plan so grand.

Through fire and blood, she forges ahead,
With Earthseed's creed, no soul misled.
In the ashes of a broken world,
A new vision unfurled and unfurled.

Butler's pen weaves a tapestry bold,
Of courage, faith, and stories untold.
A visionary work, timeless and true,
A mirror held up for me and you.

So read this book, let its wisdom flow,
A parable for our time to show.
In "Parable of the Sower," we find,
A truth profound for heart and mind.]]> 3.97 2020 Parable of the Sower: A Graphic Novel Adaptation
author: Damian Duffy
name: Max
average rating: 3.97
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2024/06/08
date added: 2024/06/08
shelves: black-authors, comics, science-fiction
review:
In a world parched by unrest and fear,
Octavia Butler's tale draws near.
"Parable of the Sower," a gem so rare,
A parable of hope in despair.

Meet Lauren Olamina, a beacon bright,
Amidst chaos and endless night.
Her words a seed in a barren land,
A prophetess with a plan so grand.

Through fire and blood, she forges ahead,
With Earthseed's creed, no soul misled.
In the ashes of a broken world,
A new vision unfurled and unfurled.

Butler's pen weaves a tapestry bold,
Of courage, faith, and stories untold.
A visionary work, timeless and true,
A mirror held up for me and you.

So read this book, let its wisdom flow,
A parable for our time to show.
In "Parable of the Sower," we find,
A truth profound for heart and mind.
]]> <![CDATA[Justice: What's the Right Thing to Do?]]> 6452731
Affirmative action, same-sex marriage, physician-assisted suicide, abortion, national service, the moral limits of markets―Sandel relates the big questions of political philosophy to the most vexing issues of the day, and shows how a surer grasp of philosophy can help us make sense of politics, morality, and our own convictions as well.

Justice is lively, thought-provoking, and wise―an essential new addition to the small shelf of books that speak convincingly to the hard questions of our civic life.]]> 308 Michael J. Sandel 0374180652 Max 4 philosophy, non-fiction 4.30 2007 Justice: What's the Right Thing to Do?
author: Michael J. Sandel
name: Max
average rating: 4.30
book published: 2007
rating: 4
read at: 2014/12/03
date added: 2023/10/08
shelves: philosophy, non-fiction
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Happiness Hypothesis: Finding Modern Truth in Ancient Wisdom]]> 96884 297 Jonathan Haidt 0465028020 Max 5 4.08 2006 The Happiness Hypothesis: Finding Modern Truth in Ancient Wisdom
author: Jonathan Haidt
name: Max
average rating: 4.08
book published: 2006
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 2021/09/08
shelves:
review:

]]> Warriors (Hell Divers, #7) 52544814
While the Hell Divers cross an ocean to battle the machines, an old flesh-and-blood threat returns to the islands.

The mission to Rio de Janeiro ended in victory, but it came at a dire cost, killing most of those who set out to rescue the stranded survivors. Even worse, the skinwalkers' leader, Horn, escaped with his demonic crew and is coming to take the throne.

Back at the Vanguard Islands, King Xavier Rodriguez has been severely injured in another battle to protect the kingdom. Now an infection threatens to kill the one man who can keep the peace. As he fights for survival, new intel from Rio de Janeiro gives humanity hope of destroying the biggest threat of all: the machines--if the machines don't find the Vanguard Islands first.]]> 528 Nicholas Sansbury Smith 1538557134 Max 4
Nicholas Smith is one of the best authors around and is one of my favorites. I have read almost all of his books and enjoy them all. This series though needs to be replaced by a new storyline. I am now reading his newest book and I know that with his writing skills it will be good.]]> 4.37 2020 Warriors (Hell Divers, #7)
author: Nicholas Sansbury Smith
name: Max
average rating: 4.37
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2021/06/21
date added: 2021/06/21
shelves: fiction, horror, science-fiction
review:
Hell Divers VII is a good book but for me, it was kind of flat. It’s the seventh book of the series and it just seems like it’s becoming repetitive. It has the same characters and it has the same enemies and the battles are reenacted over and over.

Nicholas Smith is one of the best authors around and is one of my favorites. I have read almost all of his books and enjoy them all. This series though needs to be replaced by a new storyline. I am now reading his newest book and I know that with his writing skills it will be good.
]]> Remote Control 34215764 The new book by Nebula and Hugo Award-winner, Nnedi Okorafor.

"She’s the adopted daughter of the Angel of Death. Beware of her. Mind her. Death guards her like one of its own."

The day Fatima forgot her name, Death paid a visit. From hereon in she would be known as Sankofa­­--a name that meant nothing to anyone but her, the only tie to her family and her past.

Her touch is death, and with a glance a town can fall. And she walks--alone, except for her fox companion--searching for the object that came from the sky and gave itself to her when the meteors fell and when she was yet unchanged; searching for answers.

But is there a greater purpose for Sankofa, now that Death is her constant companion?]]> 156 Nnedi Okorafor Max 3 Rich in symbolism, the story of Fatima who becomes Sankofa is moving in how it relates to an orphaned girl burdened with a terrible purpose.
I loved the premise for this story and the setting, but I found the writing kept me at a distance from the characters for most of the tale until the very end.]]> 3.86 2021 Remote Control
author: Nnedi Okorafor
name: Max
average rating: 3.86
book published: 2021
rating: 3
read at: 2021/06/21
date added: 2021/06/21
shelves: black-authors, fiction, science-fiction
review:
Not the parasitic body horror Tor promised, nor even science fiction, but an interesting folktale about fear of female power and understanding where you are coming from in order to know where you are going.
Rich in symbolism, the story of Fatima who becomes Sankofa is moving in how it relates to an orphaned girl burdened with a terrible purpose.
I loved the premise for this story and the setting, but I found the writing kept me at a distance from the characters for most of the tale until the very end.
]]> <![CDATA[The Trials of Koli (Rampart Trilogy, #2)]]> 51829857
Beyond the walls of Koli’s small village lies a fearsome landscape filled with choker trees, vicious beasts and shunned men. As an exile, Koli’s been forced to journey out into this mysterious, hostile world. But he heard a story, once. A story about lost London, and the mysterious tech of the Old Times that may still be there. If Koli can find it, there may still be a way for him to redeem himself – by saving what’s left of humankind.]]> 445 M.R. Carey 0356513491 Max 4 4.23 2020 The Trials of Koli (Rampart Trilogy, #2)
author: M.R. Carey
name: Max
average rating: 4.23
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2021/06/03
date added: 2021/06/03
shelves: fiction, mystery, science-fiction
review:
So often readers are disappointed with the sequel that follows a brilliant book they've read... And I'm delighted to say I felt absolutely none of that disappointment whilst reading The Trials of Koli. Introducing another PoV could have been risky, but it really paid off in this book. Both Koli's journey and that of the second primary character were utterly compelling, and I enjoyed them equally. The other characters within the story are also diverse, relatable, and engaging. The plot is well constructed and the prose is cleverly original. Read, read, read. Start with The Book of Koli first, though!
]]> Hunters of Dune (Dune, #7) 20249
At the end of Chapterhouse: Dune-- Frank Herbert's final novel--a ship carrying the ghola of Duncan Idaho, Sheeana (a young woman who can control sandworms), and a crew of various refugees escapes into the uncharted galaxy, fleeing from the monstrous Honored Matres, dark counterparts to the Bene Gesserit Sisterhood. The nearly invincible Honored Matres have swarmed into the known universe, driven from their home by a terrifying, mysterious Enemy. As designed by the creative genius of Frank Herbert, the primary story of Hunters and Sandworms is the exotic odyssey of Duncan's no-ship as it is forced to elude the diabolical traps set by the ferocious, unknown Enemy. To strengthen their forces, the fugitives have used genetic technology from Scytale, the last Tleilaxu Master, to revive key figures from Dune's past--including Paul Muad'Dib and his beloved Chani, Lady Jessica, Stilgar, Thufir Hawat, and even Dr. Wellington Yueh. Each of these characters will use their special talents to meet the challenges thrown at them.

Failure is unthinkable--not only is their survival at stake, but they hold the fate of the entire human race in their hands.]]> 524 Brian Herbert 0765312921 Max 3 science-fiction 3.67 2006 Hunters of Dune (Dune, #7)
author: Brian Herbert
name: Max
average rating: 3.67
book published: 2006
rating: 3
read at: 2021/06/03
date added: 2021/06/03
shelves: science-fiction
review:
Are Brian Herbert & Kevin Anderson half as good at writing 'Dune' books as Papa Frank? No. Are there far too many Deus ex Machina moments in the plot, for the rest of the writing to survive unscathed? Yes. Finishing off the storyline, no matter how much original draft material they had discovered, was always going to be a thankless task. They tried. They really tried. I think they truly loved and respected the original books. But this is merely okay, nothing more. But too much ammo was fired at the target. Some of it was due to the regurgitated characters from the original book, who mainly performed one significant plot function before becoming background noise again. Of the rest, there were protagonists and situations inspired, possibly, by Gregory Benford's 'Galactic Centre' books and/or the Matrix films (the disappointing sequels, mainly). I'm actually glad someone had a crack at the job of finishing this long long saga, but the very existence of this particular Vol.7 & Vol.8 does make it unlikely that another (and quite possibly better) attempt will ever be written.
]]> The Son of Mr. Suleman 55055154 New York Times bestselling author Eric Jerome Dickey—named one of USA Today’s 100 Black Novelists and Fiction Authors You Should Read—comes his final work: an unflinchingly timely novel about history, hearts, and family.

It’s the summer of 2019, and Professor Pi Suleman is a Black man from Memphis with a lot to endure—not only as a Black man in Trump’s America but in his hard-earned career as an adjunct professor. Pi is constantly forced to bite his tongue in the face of one of his tenured colleague’s prejudices and microaggressions. At the same time, he’s being blackmailed by a powerful professor who threatens to claim he has assaulted her, when in fact the truth is just the opposite, trapping him in a he-said-she-said with a white woman that, in this society, Pi knows he will never win.

When he meets Gemma Buckingham, a sophisticated entrepreneur who has just moved to Memphis from London to escape a deep heartbreak, things begin to look up. Though Gemma and Pi hail from separate cultures, their differences fuel a fiery and passionate connection that just may consume them both.

But Pi’s whirlwind romance is interrupted when his absentee father, a celebrated writer, passes away and Pi is called to Los Angeles to both collect his inheritance and learn about the man who never acknowledged him. With the complicated legacy of his famous father to make sense of, Gemma’s visa expiration date looming, and the threats of his colleague becoming increasingly intense, Pi must figure out who he is and what kind of man he will become in his father’s shadow.

In The Son of Mr. Suleman, Eric Jerome Dickey takes readers on a powerful journey exploring racism, colorism, life as a mixed-race person, sexual assault, microaggressions, truth and lies, cultural differences, politics, family legacies, perceptions, the impact of enslavement and Jim Crow, code-switching, the power of death, and the weight of love. It is an extraordinary story, page-turning and intense, and a book only Dickey could write.]]> 560 Eric Jerome Dickey Max 0 black-authors, fiction 3.98 2021 The Son of Mr. Suleman
author: Eric Jerome Dickey
name: Max
average rating: 3.98
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at: 2021/05/27
date added: 2021/05/27
shelves: black-authors, fiction
review:
EJD really poured his heart into this book. It includes everything that a reader would want, drama, cultural references, slang, and realistic attributes. The book took me longer than I anticipated to finish but around the 40% mark I was hooked. I loved Pi’s character and the storyline surrounding his life. He endured some of the many things that we see in America: a successful African American man trying to make a way. While he was successful, there were so many hardships thrown his way. Very good book, a little longer than I would have liked but I enjoyed it.
]]> <![CDATA[Four Hundred Souls: A Community History of African America, 1619-2019]]> 54998251 An epoch-defining history of African America, the first to appear in a generation, Four Hundred Souls is a chronological account of four hundred years of Black America as told by ninety of America's leading Black writers.

Curated by Ibram X. Kendi, author of the number one bestseller How To Be an Antiracist, and fellow historian Keisha N. Blain, Four Hundred Souls begins with the arrival of twenty enslaved Ndongo people on the shores of the British colony in mainland America in 1619, the year before the arrival of the Mayflower.

In eighty chronological chapters, the book charts the tragic and triumphant four-hundred-year history of Black American experience in a choral work of exceptional power and beauty.

Contributors include some of the best-known scholars, writers, historians, journalists, lawyers, poets and activists of contemporary America who together bring to vivid life countless new facets to the drama of slavery and resistance, segregation and survival, migration and self-discovery, cultural oppression and world-changing artistic, literary and musical creativity. In these pages are dozens of extraordinary lives and personalities, rescued from the archives and restored to their rightful place in America's narrative, as well as the ghosts of millions more.

Four Hundred Souls is an essential work of story-telling and reclamation that redefines America and changes our notion of how history is written.]]> 504 Ibram X. Kendi 0593134044 Max 5 4.56 2021 Four Hundred Souls: A Community History of African America, 1619-2019
author: Ibram X. Kendi
name: Max
average rating: 4.56
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2021/05/06
date added: 2021/05/06
shelves: biography, black-authors, history, non-fiction
review:
This book is the work of brilliance! Each essay has its unique voice and style, the stories are captivating and telling, and the poetry every 40 years ties the time period together masterfully. This collection reveals our racial history through human eyes and obscure but important events. Not only does it give voice to its authors today, it gives voice to the many many people through the years. Thank you for this work of brilliance! I highly recommend it.
]]> <![CDATA[Conscious: A Brief Guide to the Fundamental Mystery of the Mind]]> 41571759 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

"If you’ve ever wondered how you have the capacity to wonder, some fascinating insights await you in these pages.” —Adam Grant,ĚýNew York TimesĚýbestselling author ofĚýOriginals

As concise and enlightening asĚýSeven Brief Lessons on PhysicsĚý˛ą˛Ô»ĺĚýAstrophysics for People in a Hurry, this mind-expanding dive into the mystery of consciousness is an illuminating meditation on the self, free will, and felt experience.

What is consciousness? How does it arise? And why does it exist? We take our experience of being in the world for granted. But the very existence of consciousness raises profound questions: Why would any collection of matter in the universe be conscious? How are we able to think about this? And why should we?

In this wonderfully accessible book, Annaka Harris guides us through the evolving definitions, philosophies, and scientific findings that probe our limited understanding of consciousness. Where does it reside, and what gives rise to it? Could it be an illusion, or a universal property of all matter? As we try to understand consciousness, we must grapple with how to define it and, in the age of artificial intelligence, who or what might possess it.Ěý

°ä´Ç˛Ô˛őł¦ľ±´ÇłÜ˛őĚýoffers lively and challenging arguments that alter our ideas about consciousness—allowing us to thinkĚýfreely aboutĚýit for ourselves, if indeed we can.]]> 144 Annaka Harris 0062906712 Max 4
With that said, one major branch of research into consciousness is missing, omitting some 2,000 years of scientific exploration of the mind, conducted and elucidated by practitioners all over the world, but mainly in Asia (namely, India). Harris does allude to he practice of meditation a few times and also cites her friend, the renowned meditation teacher Joseph Goldstein, on one occasion, but overall the pivotal role of introspection and meditative practice to get at the properties of consciousness from a first-person perspective isn't much mentioned, let alone championed, at all.

Given Harris' own practice and that her husband, Sam Harris, wrote a whole book about meditative practice as a way to see reality (and consciousness) more clearly, this seems rather odd. A section under the theme of "consciousness in philosophy and religion" would have made less of a glaring omission. One can only guess that Harris or her publisher were overly cautious in trying to avoid the whiff of New Age or kookery]]> 3.82 2019 Conscious: A Brief Guide to the Fundamental Mystery of the Mind
author: Annaka Harris
name: Max
average rating: 3.82
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2021/05/06
date added: 2021/05/06
shelves: history, non-fiction, psychology, spirituality
review:
I really enjoyed Annaka Harris' book on consciousness, especially the section on panpsychism, which provides one of the clearest expositions of what panpsychism actually is. The writing is very clear, engaging, and conversational, making the subject very lucid--I wish my own consciousness was like this for only five minutes a day.

With that said, one major branch of research into consciousness is missing, omitting some 2,000 years of scientific exploration of the mind, conducted and elucidated by practitioners all over the world, but mainly in Asia (namely, India). Harris does allude to he practice of meditation a few times and also cites her friend, the renowned meditation teacher Joseph Goldstein, on one occasion, but overall the pivotal role of introspection and meditative practice to get at the properties of consciousness from a first-person perspective isn't much mentioned, let alone championed, at all.

Given Harris' own practice and that her husband, Sam Harris, wrote a whole book about meditative practice as a way to see reality (and consciousness) more clearly, this seems rather odd. A section under the theme of "consciousness in philosophy and religion" would have made less of a glaring omission. One can only guess that Harris or her publisher were overly cautious in trying to avoid the whiff of New Age or kookery
]]> <![CDATA[Thoughts in Traffic: 243 Quick-fire Notes to Aid Your Outlook on Self, Life & The Afterlife]]> 57673422
Consider this for a moment:

Have you at any point in time thought about writing a book documenting all your most private and profound thoughts as one indivisible unit? I bet you have, if subconsciously.

Well, that's exactly what you have here. Only that this was not planned to be a book, just some random Whatsapp Status. One thought-note on a typical evening led to another, and another, then another, until, voila, 243 of the most heartfelt notes bound the book together!

Thoughts in Traffic is a book of thoughts, expanded from quotes to philosophical notes, essays, Shakespearean poems, noetic, and intellectual discourses.

You also get to read the Author's: Letter to the World-beater; Letter to the Nigerian Citizenry, Letter to Top CEOs on LinkedIn, Letter to Elon Musk, and even a LETTER TO GOD!

Two things are certain for the reader once done reading:

You will love or loathe the Author,
You will wonder who on earth is Aramide Salako.
Ultimately, the goal of the TiT is to convey, using the medium of language, honest thoughts and feelings to the reader in a felt manner. And I do hope that you find the reading experience a worthwhile and absorbing contact of minds, to the last syllable.]]> 806 Aramide Salako Max 0 4.08 Thoughts in Traffic: 243 Quick-fire Notes to Aid Your Outlook on Self, Life & The Afterlife
author: Aramide Salako
name: Max
average rating: 4.08
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2021/05/01
shelves: biography, black-authors, non-fiction, philosophy, to-read
review:

]]> The Spook Who Sat by the Door 33954 256 Sam Greenlee 1930097271 Max 4 I do have to take away a star based about the actual revolution plot itself, though. Many aspects of its execution require a signficant suspension of disbelief. And its goals are never detailed by the Freeman character to his soldiers, nor to the reader by Greenlee, beyond to "be free", to "make Whitey stop messing with us" and to "make Whitey choose between global interventionist policies (e.g. Vietnam) and continuing to oppress us".
Um . . . OK . . . so what does that mean? U.S. military policy has long been readiness to fight two major wars on two different fronts. How do various guerilla uprisings suddenly force such a choice? And even if they do, who's to say the choice wouldn't just be to concentrate on cracking down on Blacks? And even if that weren't the choice, what exactly constitutes a victory? Do Blacks run their own neighborhoods independent of any governmental authority that has Whites in it? Black neighborhoods secede for city, state or federal government control? Or do we all move to one place and the fed governemtn turns the land over to us for our own independent nation? Or do we expect that at the end of the rebellion Whites will just magically stop being racists because we've shown we fight back?
Just HOW will things be different at the end of the successful guerilla campaign? We will be "free". But what does that mean? What are the precise specific objectives. You don't undertake a war without some sort of measure in that regard and that is never given to us in this novel.
All that said though, the rest of the story elements are compelling and certainly make the book worth a read. Despite my criticism regarding the details of the plot, the book kept my attention from beginning to end and it had me looking long and hard until I found a copy of the movie to view also.]]> 4.36 1969 The Spook Who Sat by the Door
author: Sam Greenlee
name: Max
average rating: 4.36
book published: 1969
rating: 4
read at: 2021/04/07
date added: 2021/04/07
shelves: black-authors, fiction, mystery
review:
The book is quite interesting--definitely a page turner. It serves as a very fascinating exploration of the political outlook it presents. Hard truths continually hit you with regard the portrayal not just of establishment Whites, but also of liberal Whites and middle class Blacks.
I do have to take away a star based about the actual revolution plot itself, though. Many aspects of its execution require a signficant suspension of disbelief. And its goals are never detailed by the Freeman character to his soldiers, nor to the reader by Greenlee, beyond to "be free", to "make Whitey stop messing with us" and to "make Whitey choose between global interventionist policies (e.g. Vietnam) and continuing to oppress us".
Um . . . OK . . . so what does that mean? U.S. military policy has long been readiness to fight two major wars on two different fronts. How do various guerilla uprisings suddenly force such a choice? And even if they do, who's to say the choice wouldn't just be to concentrate on cracking down on Blacks? And even if that weren't the choice, what exactly constitutes a victory? Do Blacks run their own neighborhoods independent of any governmental authority that has Whites in it? Black neighborhoods secede for city, state or federal government control? Or do we all move to one place and the fed governemtn turns the land over to us for our own independent nation? Or do we expect that at the end of the rebellion Whites will just magically stop being racists because we've shown we fight back?
Just HOW will things be different at the end of the successful guerilla campaign? We will be "free". But what does that mean? What are the precise specific objectives. You don't undertake a war without some sort of measure in that regard and that is never given to us in this novel.
All that said though, the rest of the story elements are compelling and certainly make the book worth a read. Despite my criticism regarding the details of the plot, the book kept my attention from beginning to end and it had me looking long and hard until I found a copy of the movie to view also.
]]> Fledgling 60925 Fledgling, Octavia Butler's new novel after a seven year break, is the story of an apparently young, amnesiac girl whose alarmingly inhuman needs and abilities lead her to a startling conclusion: She is in fact a genetically modified, 53-year-old vampire. Forced to discover what she can about her stolen former life, she must at the same time learn who wanted - and still wants - to destroy her and those she cares for and how she can save herself. Fledgling is a captivating novel that tests the limits of "otherness" and questions what it means to be truly human.]]> 310 Octavia E. Butler 0446696161 Max 4
I like this novel because it presents an interesting twist on the traditional vampire myth. The Ina society is intriguing, and how they relate to their "symbionts" makes for a fascinating delving into human relations.

What I don't like is that I feel this book stops short of its full potential. The ending seems a little abrupt, though it fits with this type of storytelling. The idea of a girl that is physically 10-11 having a relationship with an adult is troubling, though it adds to the shock value of the story. I get the feeling that there could be a possible follow up novel in the future.

Butler doesn't write enough novels these days. Don't pass this one up.]]> 3.80 2005 Fledgling
author: Octavia E. Butler
name: Max
average rating: 3.80
book published: 2005
rating: 4
read at: 2021/04/06
date added: 2021/04/06
shelves: black-authors, fiction, science-fiction
review:
If you're like me and have read just about all of Octavia Butler's books, you'll enjoy this one. Shori is a typical Butler protagonist - black, strong, and a leader. Her amnesia gives an interesting twist to the story as she has to find herself and understand that she is not like the other Ina (Butler's species of vampires). Her brown skin is in constrast with the pale complexed vampire races, and not all Ina are enlightened about racial equality.

I like this novel because it presents an interesting twist on the traditional vampire myth. The Ina society is intriguing, and how they relate to their "symbionts" makes for a fascinating delving into human relations.

What I don't like is that I feel this book stops short of its full potential. The ending seems a little abrupt, though it fits with this type of storytelling. The idea of a girl that is physically 10-11 having a relationship with an adult is troubling, though it adds to the shock value of the story. I get the feeling that there could be a possible follow up novel in the future.

Butler doesn't write enough novels these days. Don't pass this one up.
]]> <![CDATA[Blood Grove (Easy Rawlins, #15)]]> 53915343
It is 1969, and flames can be seen on the horizon, protest wafts like smoke though the thick air, and Easy Rawlins, the Black private detective whose small agency finally has its own office, gets a visit from a white Vietnam veteran. The young man comes to Easy with a story that makes little sense. He and his lover, a beautiful young woman, were attacked in a citrus grove at the city’s outskirts. He may have killed a man, and the woman and his dog are now missing. Inclined to turn down what sounds like nothing but trouble, Easy takes the case when he realizes how damaged the young vet is from his war experiences—the bond between veterans superseding all other considerations.
Ěý
The veteran is not Easy’s only unlooked-for trouble. Easy’s adopted daughter Feather’s white uncle shows up uninvited, raising questions and unsettling the life Easy has long forged for the now young woman. Where Feather sees a family reunion, Easy suspects something else, something that will break his heart.
Ěý
Blood Grove is a crackling, moody, and thrilling race through a California of hippies and tycoons, radicals and sociopaths, cops and grifters, both men and women. Easy will need the help of his friends—from the genius Jackson Blue to the dangerous Mouse Alexander, Fearless Jones, and Christmas Black—to make sense of a case that reveals the darkest impulses humans harbor.Ěý
Ěý
Blood Grove is a novel of vast scope and intimate insight, and a soulful call for justice by any means necessary.
Ěý]]> 320 Walter Mosley 0316491187 Max 4 black-authors, fiction
Vietnam vet Craig Kilian needs clarity on a night-gone-bad, and sends Easy on another adventure through 1969 Los Angeles, hippies and power brokers all.

This is a great return to form for Mosley and Easy, where I felt the last couple Rawlins books weren't as inspired. Blood Grove is a "greatest hits" of all your favorite characters and bit players, and introduces a few others you'd love to see pop up again in the future.]]> 3.85 2021 Blood Grove (Easy Rawlins, #15)
author: Walter Mosley
name: Max
average rating: 3.85
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2021/03/23
date added: 2021/03/23
shelves: black-authors, fiction
review:
It's always great to visit with Easy and the family. He's more settled and domestic than ever these days, and Feather is growing up. Even Mouse is growing and maturing. Yet, and always, Easy gets his buttons pushed by a hard-luck story and ends up in the muck once more.

Vietnam vet Craig Kilian needs clarity on a night-gone-bad, and sends Easy on another adventure through 1969 Los Angeles, hippies and power brokers all.

This is a great return to form for Mosley and Easy, where I felt the last couple Rawlins books weren't as inspired. Blood Grove is a "greatest hits" of all your favorite characters and bit players, and introduces a few others you'd love to see pop up again in the future.
]]> Luster 51541496
Razor-sharp, provocatively page-turning and surprisingly tender, Luster by Raven Leilani is a painfully funny debut about what it means to be young now.]]> 227 Raven Leilani 0374194327 Max 3 black-authors, fiction 3.51 2020 Luster
author: Raven Leilani
name: Max
average rating: 3.51
book published: 2020
rating: 3
read at: 2021/03/23
date added: 2021/03/23
shelves: black-authors, fiction
review:
This book made me cringe from the very first page. The main character was so quirky and off putting. At times, she was downright pathetic. The story gave me the same uneasy vibes that I got from Queenie and Such a Fun Age. The whole time that I was reading it, I kept thinking that I can’t believe this made Barack’s favorite books list. Despite it being such a peculiar, uncomfortable story, I flew through it. I had to see how it would all unfold. If nothing else, it was interesting like a train wreck.
]]> <![CDATA[The Half Has Never Been Told: Slavery and the Making of American Capitalism]]> 14894629
As historian Edward Baptist reveals in The Half Has Never Been Told, the expansion of slavery in the first eight decades after American independence drove the evolution and modernization of the United States. In the span of a single lifetime, the South grew from a narrow coastal strip of worn-out tobacco plantations to a continental cotton empire, and the United States grew into a modern, industrial, and capitalist economy. Until the Civil War, Baptist explains, the most important American economic innovations were ways to make slavery ever more profitable. Through forced migration and torture, slave owners extracted continual increases in efficiency from enslaved African Americans. Thus the United States seized control of the world market for cotton, the key raw material of the Industrial Revolution, and became a wealthy nation with global influence.

Told through intimate slave narratives, plantation records, newspapers, and the words of politicians, entrepreneurs, and escaped slaves, The Half Has Never Been Told offers a radical new interpretation of American history. It forces readers to reckon with the violence at the root of American supremacy, but also with the survival and resistance that brought about slavery’s end—and created a culture that sustains America’s deepest dreams of freedom.
]]> 498 Edward E. Baptist 046500296X Max 0 4.45 2013 The Half Has Never Been Told: Slavery and the Making of American Capitalism
author: Edward E. Baptist
name: Max
average rating: 4.45
book published: 2013
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2021/02/18
shelves: biography, black-authors, history, non-fiction, to-read
review:

]]> The Practicing Stoic 37886498
The result is a set of philosophy lessons for everyone — the most valuable wisdom of ages past made available for our times, and for all time.]]> 292 Ward Farnsworth 1567926118 Max 4 4.33 2018 The Practicing Stoic
author: Ward Farnsworth
name: Max
average rating: 4.33
book published: 2018
rating: 4
read at: 2021/02/12
date added: 2021/02/12
shelves: biography, favorites, history, philosophy, psychology
review:
This book is indispensable for anyone with a genuine interest in Stoicism. There is much more here than the standard (almost formulaic) account of stoic virtues, assent and indifferents etc. Throughout, one has a clear impression that the author is himself a practising Stoic; the writing is suffused with an authentic Stoic serenity and the examples of making Stoicism work in practice, are unique. Moreover, there are real – sometimes profound – insights. For example, his concept of viewing Stoicism as similar to "long experience" I found the last chapter of the book “Stoicism and its Critics” not only informative, but highly persuasive. What I like most of all, however, is that the authors account of Stoicism is deflationary, by which I mean that he is avoids making absurd claims about the ability of Stoicism to stave-off the anxieties and pain of being a human being in the world. Nowadays, Stoicism is too often regarded as just another option on the smorgasbord of self-help books, with various self-styled gurus offering their banal pronouncements and life-rules. Ward Farnsworth is a refreshing counter to this sort of nonsense. He provides deep insights into human life as illustrated by the Stoics, but always with a large measure of realism attached. His knowledge illuminates rather than imposes. In the end, we are all mortal, fragile and flawed humans. Stoicism can help us be the best we can, but that “best” will, in the end, be quite modest. Although I am well versed in Stoic literature, I found so much in this book that I will go back to – again and again. But my wife, who is new to Stoic thinking, also enjoyed this book hugely. That is a remarkable achievement for the author and why I am pleased to recommend “The Practising Stoic”. One final point worthy of note – is that the book (hardcover) is beautifully produced!
]]> <![CDATA[Individuation and Narcissism: The Psychology of Self in Jung and Kohut]]> 451853 280 Mario Jacoby 0415064643 Max 0 to-read 4.24 1990 Individuation and Narcissism: The Psychology of Self in Jung and Kohut
author: Mario Jacoby
name: Max
average rating: 4.24
book published: 1990
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2021/02/11
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Excuses Begone! 22433868 Wayne W. Dyer Max 2 4.40 2009 Excuses Begone!
author: Wayne W. Dyer
name: Max
average rating: 4.40
book published: 2009
rating: 2
read at: 2014/06/19
date added: 2021/01/19
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Fires of Vengeance (The Burning, #2)]]> 43174603 If the city can be taken, if Tsiora can reclaim her throne and reunite her people, then the Omehi might have a chance to survive the coming onslaught.

]]> 529 Evan Winter Max 4 4.37 2020 The Fires of Vengeance (The Burning, #2)
author: Evan Winter
name: Max
average rating: 4.37
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2021/01/15
date added: 2021/01/15
shelves: black-authors, science-fiction
review:
A nice epic mixing a tribal enviroment, warriors and dragons. Even I think all ths story is developed on a frenzy run of battles and emotional losses, this book keeps your attention without loss. The one and only flaw I found is the sudden end, unconclusive and a little forced to get a link with a third book.
]]> Eternity 37419720
Journey to a realm that defies all description and enter an eons-old universe of gods and heroes in this visionary new adventure from New York Times best-selling writer Matt Kindt (X-O MANOWAR, Mind MGMT) and blockbuster artist Trevor Hairsine (DIVINITY, X-Men: Deadly Genesis)!

Collecting ETERNITY #1–4.]]> 112 Matt Kindt 1682152650 Max 4 comics 3.16 Eternity
author: Matt Kindt
name: Max
average rating: 3.16
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2020/12/26
date added: 2020/12/26
shelves: comics
review:

]]> Victor LaValle's Destroyer 36100937
Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein beseechedĚýhis creator for love and companionship, but in 2017, the monster has long discarded any notions of peace or inclusion. He has become the Destroyer,Ěýhis only goalĚýto eliminate the scourge of humanity from the planet. In this goal, he initially finds a willing partner in Dr. Baker, a descendant of the Frankenstein family who has lost her teenage son after an encounter with the police. While two scientists, Percy and Byron, initially believe they’re brought to protect Dr. Baker from the monster, they soon realize they may have to protect the world from the monster and Dr. Baker’s wrath.

Written by lauded novelist Victor LaValle (The Devil In Silver, The Ballad of Black Tom), Destroyer is a harrowing tale exploring the legacies of love, loss, and vengeance placed firmly in the tense atmosphere and current events of the modern-day United States.]]> 160 Victor LaValle 1684150558 Max 4 science-fiction, comics 3.86 2018 Victor LaValle's Destroyer
author: Victor LaValle
name: Max
average rating: 3.86
book published: 2018
rating: 4
read at: 2020/12/05
date added: 2020/12/05
shelves: science-fiction, comics
review:
I'm so glad that I checked this out! This book involves so many genres/subjects but is always on point. Victor LaValle tells an incredibly sad family tale involving science, literary history, corruption, social issues, race relations, and so much more. The book shouldn't make sense but it so does. The art by Dietrich Smith was a perfect match for the story being told. There were some truly glorious panels. I could have used some more background on the true antagonists but its a minor gripe. Overall, a very good book that needs to be read.
]]> <![CDATA[My Soul to Take (African Immortals, #4)]]> 9994765
Fana and the Life Brothers are rushing to distribute their healing “Living Blood” throughout the world, hoping to eliminate most diseases before Fana is bound to marry Michel. Still, they cannot heal people faster than Michel can kill them. Due weaves a tangled web in this novel, including beloved characters from her bestselling Joplin’s Ghost, in a war of good against evil, making My Soul to Take a chilling and thrilling experience.]]> 432 Tananarive Due 1439176140 Max 3 4.09 2011 My Soul to Take (African Immortals, #4)
author: Tananarive Due
name: Max
average rating: 4.09
book published: 2011
rating: 3
read at: 2020/12/02
date added: 2020/12/02
shelves: black-authors, horror, mystery, science-fiction
review:
After being such a fan of the first book of this series, I was a little disappointed in this last book. I was left with the feeling of being unsatisfied. I thought that with the gifts that Fana was given, she was so much more than left with finding her ultimate mate. The two of them should have had more interaction to be believable. I still enjoyed the book. I just wanted more.
]]> <![CDATA[Making Our Way Home: The Great Migration and the Black American Dream]]> 51055563 A powerful illustrated history of the Great Migration and its sweeping impact on Black and American culture, from Reconstruction to the rise of hip hop.

Over the course of six decades, an unprecedented wave of Black Americans left the South and spread across the nation in search of a better life--a migration that sparked stunning demographic and cultural changes in twentieth-century America. Through gripping and accessible historical narrative paired with illustrations, author and activist Blair Imani examines the largely overlooked impact of The Great Migration and how it affected--and continues to affect--Black identity and America as a whole.

Making Our Way Home explores issues like voting rights, domestic terrorism, discrimination, and segregation alongside the flourishing of arts and culture, activism, and civil rights. Imani shows how these influences shaped America's workforce and wealth distribution by featuring the stories of notable people and events, relevant data, and family histories. The experiences of prominent figures such as James Baldwin, Fannie Lou Hamer, El Hajj Malik El Shabazz (Malcolm X), Ella Baker, and others are woven into the larger historical and cultural narratives of the Great Migration to create a truly singular record of this powerful journey.]]> 192 Blair Imani 1984856936 Max 5 4.32 2020 Making Our Way Home: The Great Migration and the Black American Dream
author: Blair Imani
name: Max
average rating: 4.32
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2020/12/02
date added: 2020/12/02
shelves: biography, black-authors, history, non-fiction
review:
A wonderful contemplation of the history of African Americans, slavery, emancipation, sharecropping, and finally the Black Migration. The author and illustrator use clear information and images to tell the story and the tale of how the migration affected the USA musically, artistically, in manufacturing and so many other ways is truly exciting. A great book for upper elementary, middle school, and up! As an adult, I loved reading it.
]]> <![CDATA[The Biology Of Belief: Unleashing The Power Of Consciousness, Matter And Miracles]]> 90556 205 Bruce H. Lipton 0975991477 Max 3 4.13 2005 The Biology Of Belief: Unleashing The Power Of Consciousness, Matter And Miracles
author: Bruce H. Lipton
name: Max
average rating: 4.13
book published: 2005
rating: 3
read at: 2020/11/25
date added: 2020/11/25
shelves: health, history, psychology, science, self-help, spirituality
review:

]]> Patient Zero (Joe Ledger, #1) 3993839 421 Jonathan Maberry 0312382855 Max 3 4.00 2009 Patient Zero (Joe Ledger, #1)
author: Jonathan Maberry
name: Max
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2009
rating: 3
read at: 2020/11/25
date added: 2020/11/25
shelves: fiction, horror, science-fiction
review:

]]> The Order of Time 36442813
With his extraordinary charm and sense of wonder, bringing together science, philosophy and art, Carlo Rovelli unravels this mystery, inviting us to imagine a world where time is in us and we are not in time.]]> 224 Carlo Rovelli 073521610X Max 5 4.14 2017 The Order of Time
author: Carlo Rovelli
name: Max
average rating: 4.14
book published: 2017
rating: 5
read at: 2020/11/14
date added: 2020/11/14
shelves: favorites, history, philosophy, science
review:
Not only is the content fascinating but the author is positively poetic about physics, with the book periodically shifting from theoretical physics to metaphysics and philosophy. The dense and abstract content was made much more accessible than any similar book I have read on cosmology or even science generally. Well done! I initially listened to the audio version by Benedict Cumberbaugh and it was a delightful listen on a long car trip. Highly recommend
]]> <![CDATA[Blood Colony (African Immortals, #3)]]> 2391371
There's a new drug on the street: Glow. Said to heal almost any illness, it is distributed by an Underground Railroad of drug peddlers. But what gives Glow its power? Its main ingredient is blood - the blood of immortals. A small but powerful colony of immortals is distributing the blood, slowly wiping out the AIDS epidemic and other diseases around the world.

Meet Fana Wolde, seventeen years old, the only immortal born with the Living Blood. She can read minds, and her injuries heal immediately. When her best friend, a mortal, is imprisoned by Fana's family, Fana helps her escape and together they run away from Fana's protected home in Washington State to join the Underground Railroad.

But Fana has more than her parents to worry about. Glow peddlers are being murdered by a violent, hundred-year-old sect with ties to the Vatican. Now, when Fana is most vulnerable, she is being hunted to fulfill an ancient blood prophecy that could lead to countless deaths.

While her people search for Fana and race to unravel the unknown sect's mysterious origins, Fana must learn to confront the deadly forces - or she and everyone she loves will die.]]> 432 Tananarive Due 0743287355 Max 3 4.11 2008 Blood Colony (African Immortals, #3)
author: Tananarive Due
name: Max
average rating: 4.11
book published: 2008
rating: 3
read at: 2020/11/14
date added: 2020/11/14
shelves: black-authors, fiction, science-fiction
review:
I am giving this book three stars because I am a fan of Tananarive Due, generally love her writing and appreciate the intelligence and skill she brings to her work. But, I found this book very, very hard to get through. Rather than being suspenseful and entertaining, the youthful naiveté of Fana and Caitlin throughout most of the novel was irritating to me and rather than identifying with the misdirected rebellious of the young protagonists, I just felt annoyed by it. I also agree with another reviewer who complained about the essential sterility and ineffectiveness of Dawit in this novel. Again, the book gets three stars because Due is a really talented story teller. But, this particular book did not resonate with me as much as earlier works.
]]> <![CDATA[Great Sky Woman (Great Sky Woman, #1)]]> 625845
In this breathtaking blend of imagination, anthropology, and sheer storytelling magic, Steven Barnes takes us to the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro and into the realm of our own ancestors, who lived, hunted, celebrated, and died side by side with roaming herds of wild animals and great golden clouds of migrating butterflies. A people whose skin was the color and smell of the earth itself, the Ibandi formed a hierarchy based on strength of limb and spirit. In this extraordinary novel, we follow the adventures of two of the Ibandi’s chosen T’Cori, an abandoned girl raised by the powerful and mysterious medicine woman Stillshadow, and Frog Hopping, a boy possessing a gift that is also a curse.

Though the live in different encampments, Frog and T’Cori are linked through the revered and powerful Stillshadow, who has sensed in them a destiny apart from others’.

Through the years, and on their separate life paths, T’Cori’s and Frog’s fates entwine as an inevitable disaster approaches from the south–from the very god they worship. For as long as there have been mountain, sky, and savannah, there has been a home for the Ibandi. Now, in the face of an enemy beyond anything spoken of even in legend, they must ask their god Do we remain or do we depart?

Great Sky Woman not only brings to life the world of prehistoric man but also shines a brilliant light on humanity itself. For here is a story of rivalries and alliances, of human fear and desire, of faith and betrayal . . . and, above all, a story of how primitive man, without words or machines, set in motion civilization’s long, winding journey to the present.]]> 368 Steven Barnes 0345459008 Max 3 3.87 2006 Great Sky Woman (Great Sky Woman, #1)
author: Steven Barnes
name: Max
average rating: 3.87
book published: 2006
rating: 3
read at: 2020/11/12
date added: 2020/11/12
shelves: black-authors, science-fiction
review:
I found it to be a great premise that was not executed well for me. The action didn't move fast enough for me although the descriptions and world building by the author were very well written and helped me visualize the scenes.
]]> <![CDATA[What's Really Hood!: A Collection of Tales from the Streets]]> 7228880
WHAT'S REALLY HOOD!

Black Is Blue by Victor L. Martin delves into the life of a corporate woman who falls in love with a thug and finds out just how easy it is to stray from the straight and narrow.

Eighteen and hungry Wiz's only addiction to drugs is the money it made. But Crystal changed all of that and shows him just how powerful a woman can be in The P is Free by LaShonda Teague.

In The Last Laugh by Bonta, Bobo, a member of the infamous Eight-Trey street gang, learns that gang life isn't all it's cracked up to be as "street wars" take on a whole new meaning.

Shawn "Jihad" Trump tells the story of loyalty, love and honor, when The Point Blank Mob is brought to its knees leaving the crew fighting for their lives and freedom in All for Nothing .

And New York Times bestselling author, Wahida Clark, introduces Nina, a woman tired of being disrespected by men who takes revenge to the ultimate level in Makin' Endz Meet.]]> 318 Wahida Clark 0446539163 Max 4
I would recommend this book to a lover of hood books, because you will truly enjoy it.]]> 4.30 2010 What's Really Hood!: A Collection of Tales from the Streets
author: Wahida Clark
name: Max
average rating: 4.30
book published: 2010
rating: 4
read at: 2020/11/12
date added: 2020/11/12
shelves: black-authors, erotica, fiction
review:
I enjoyed this collection of hood stories...some more than others, of course. Some authors I knew and others I read for the first time, but I am always open to new people.

I would recommend this book to a lover of hood books, because you will truly enjoy it.
]]> <![CDATA[Fearing the Black Body: The Racial Origins of Fat Phobia]]> 54346469
The work is divided into three sections. The two chapters in the first part consider how Renaissance white women and women of color were depicted as plump and feminine, separated by class, yet belonging to the same gender. The second part of the work charts the rise of modern racial ideologies that yoked feminine beauty to Protestant, Anglo-Saxon whiteness. Later chapters and the epilogue consider how Americans normalized the "scientific management" of white women's bodies for the purpose of racial uplift, a project that continued to situate black women as the embodied Other.

The author does not address fat from the angle of health or previous attitudes white Europeans held towards corpulence.]]> 8 Sabrina Strings 1705219594 Max 0 to-read 3.98 2019 Fearing the Black Body: The Racial Origins of Fat Phobia
author: Sabrina Strings
name: Max
average rating: 3.98
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/11/12
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Strangers Drowning: Grappling with Impossible Idealism, Drastic Choices, and the Overpowering Urge to Help]]> 24611937 How far do you really go to “do unto others”? New Yorker journalist Larissa MacFarquhar reveals the individuals who devote themselves fully to bettering the lives of strangers, even when it comes at great personal cost

There are those of us who help and those who live to help. Larissa MacFarquhar digs deep into the psychological roots and existential dilemmas motivating those rare individuals practicing lives of extreme ethical commitment. The donor who offers up her kidney to a complete stranger; the activist who abandons possessions to devote himself to the cause; the foster parent who adopts dozens of children: such do-gooders inspire us but also force us to question deep-seated notions about what it means to be human. How could these do-gooders value strangers as much as their own loved ones? What does it really take to live a life of extreme virtue? Might it mean making choices as heartbreaking as the one in the old philosophy problem: abandoning a single family member to drown so that two strangers might live?

Strangers Drowning combines real-life stories of unimaginable selflessness along with deep meditations on the shocking implications of these ethical acts.]]> 336 Larissa MacFarquhar 1594204330 Max 5 3.91 2015 Strangers Drowning: Grappling with Impossible Idealism, Drastic Choices, and the Overpowering Urge to Help
author: Larissa MacFarquhar
name: Max
average rating: 3.91
book published: 2015
rating: 5
read at: 2020/11/01
date added: 2020/11/01
shelves: favorites, non-fiction, psychology, self-help
review:
Excellent book. Without moralistic judgments illuminates cultural norms of altruism and selfishness, some advantages/disadvantages of both traits. Takes the reader into the experience of extreme altruism, leads the reader to question their own values.
]]> To Hold Up the Sky 49247266 From Cixin Liu, the New York Times bestselling author of The Three-Body Problem, To Hold Up the Sky is a breathtaking collection of imaginative science fiction.

Stories included are:

The Village Teacher
The Time Migration
2018-04-01
Fire In The Earth
Contraction
Mirror
Ode To Joy
Full Spectrum Barrage Jamming
Sea of Dreams
Cloud of Poems
The Thinker]]> 336 Liu Cixin 1250306086 Max 3
But there were three stories, unfortunately also the longest in the collection, that I really, really slogged through, all translated by the same person. I was so bored I had to fight the urge to DNF, and to be honest it speaks a lot for the other stories that I didn’t. So overall, this collection was kind of frustrating for me. Is it just the nature of short story collections, that there will always be a few you don’t like? Is it due to there being eleven stories with four different translators, instead of just one, maybe two? Is it just that sci-fi can cover such a huge breadth of topics, and this collection shows off Cixin Liu’s versatility in that regard, that I was bound to come across subjects I simply don’t like reading? I’m not sure.

Regardless, the eight stories in To Hold Up the Sky that I did enjoy were completely and utterly dazzling. They blew me away, and convinced me to pick up a copy of Liu’s The Three-Body Problem soon, which has been on my to-read list for a while. I would say, if you are a fan of hard sci-fi, go ahead and give this collection a try.]]> 3.78 2020 To Hold Up the Sky
author: Liu Cixin
name: Max
average rating: 3.78
book published: 2020
rating: 3
read at: 2020/11/01
date added: 2020/11/01
shelves: favorites, fiction, science-fiction
review:
The Time Migration” reminded me of all the philosophical stuff I love about Star Trek: The Next Generation, Doctor Who, and The Little Prince, but 10x more in depth. “Ode to Joy” is where sci-fi meets music in the most imaginative way, and “Sea of Dreams” was thought-provoking cli-fi. Liu incorporates physics, astronomy, geometry, the environment, the arts—basically any discipline we humans have explored—into some impressively creative stories.

But there were three stories, unfortunately also the longest in the collection, that I really, really slogged through, all translated by the same person. I was so bored I had to fight the urge to DNF, and to be honest it speaks a lot for the other stories that I didn’t. So overall, this collection was kind of frustrating for me. Is it just the nature of short story collections, that there will always be a few you don’t like? Is it due to there being eleven stories with four different translators, instead of just one, maybe two? Is it just that sci-fi can cover such a huge breadth of topics, and this collection shows off Cixin Liu’s versatility in that regard, that I was bound to come across subjects I simply don’t like reading? I’m not sure.

Regardless, the eight stories in To Hold Up the Sky that I did enjoy were completely and utterly dazzling. They blew me away, and convinced me to pick up a copy of Liu’s The Three-Body Problem soon, which has been on my to-read list for a while. I would say, if you are a fan of hard sci-fi, go ahead and give this collection a try.
]]> Ball Lightning 32076670 A new standalone military SF adventure from the bestselling and award-winning author of The Three-Body Problem.

When Chen’s parents are incinerated before his eyes by a blast of ball lightning, he devotes his life to cracking the secret of mysterious natural phenomena. His search takes him to stormy mountaintops, an experimental military weapons lab, and an old Soviet science station. The more he learns, the more he comes to realize that ball lightning is just the tip of an entirely new frontier in particle physics. Although Chen’s quest provides a purpose for his lonely life, his reasons for chasing his elusive quarry come into conflict with soldiers and scientists who have motives of their own: a beautiful army major with an obsession with dangerous weaponry, and a physicist who has no place for ethical considerations in his single-minded pursuit of knowledge.

Ball Lightning, by award-winning Chinese science fiction author Cixin Liu, is a fast-paced story of what happens when the beauty of scientific inquiry runs up against a push to harness new discoveries with no consideration of their possible consequences.

The original Chinese version was published in 2004. In 2018 the English version, translated by Joel Martinsen, was published in the US by Tor Books.]]> 384 Liu Cixin 0765394073 Max 3 science-fiction 3.77 2004 Ball Lightning
author: Liu Cixin
name: Max
average rating: 3.77
book published: 2004
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2020/10/27
shelves: science-fiction
review:
I thought the science parts of this were interesting, made me want to look up more of where the ideas came from. The story though didn't ever really draw me in as much as I'd have liked.
]]> Master of Poisons 49189334
Named a Best of 2020 Pick for Kirkus Review's Best Books of 2020

Award-winning author Andrea Hairston weaves together African folktales and postcolonial literature into unforgettable fantasy in Master of Poisons

The world is changing. Poison desert eats good farmland. Once-sweet water turns foul. The wind blows sand and sadness across the Empire. To get caught in a storm is death. To live and do nothing is death. There is magic in the world, but good conjure is hard to find.

Djola, righthand man and spymaster of the lord of the Arkhysian Empire, is desperately trying to save his adopted homeland, even in exile.

Awa, a young woman training to be a powerful griot, tests the limits of her knowledge and comes into her own in a world of sorcery, floating cities, kindly beasts, and uncertain men.

Awash in the rhythms of folklore and storytelling and rich with Hairston's characteristic lush prose, Master of Poisons is epic fantasy that will bleed your mind with its turns of phrase and leave you aching for the world it burns into being.

At the Publisher's request, this title is being sold without Digital Rights Management Software (DRM) applied.]]> 464 Andrea Hairston 1250260558 Max 0 3.31 2020 Master of Poisons
author: Andrea Hairston
name: Max
average rating: 3.31
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/10/27
shelves: black-authors, fiction, science-fiction, to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Rage of Dragons (The Burning, #1)]]> 41952489
Everyone else is fodder, destined to fight and die in the endless war. Young, gift-less Tau knows all this, but he has a plan of escape. He's going to get himself injured, get out early, and settle down to marriage, children, and land. Only, he doesn't get the chance. Those closest to him are brutally murdered, and his grief swiftly turns to anger. Fixated on revenge, Tau dedicates himself to an unthinkable path. He'll become the greatest swordsman to ever live, a man willing to die a hundred thousand times for the chance to kill the three who betrayed him.]]> 535 Evan Winter 031648976X Max 5
And I'm here to tell you that I wish I hadn't!

This book has the appeal of being culturally and structurally different from almost everything else out there while still being relatable, epic, brilliantly narrated, and realistic in the way that matters most: human reactions and motivations.

Prentice Onayemi gives a brilliant audio performance. His narration is clear and precise. His voices are varied, distinct, and have just enough accent to add authenticity while still being easy to understand. His vocal inflections are spot on, and his tempo shifts are nearly perfect, clearly conveying the tension in any given scene.

The story opens with a brilliant prologue that gives us a wonderful taste of the magic system while establishing a bit of the world's mythology that later proves highly misunderstood.

In the main story, we're introduced to a very interesting culture and caste system s we get to know Tau, the main character.

Although he is definitely obsessive with a severe case of tunnel vision, he's a very interesting character that feels so real he's almost like a good friend now.

I have to admire and applaud his dedication.]]> 4.29 2017 The Rage of Dragons (The Burning, #1)
author: Evan Winter
name: Max
average rating: 4.29
book published: 2017
rating: 5
read at: 2020/10/15
date added: 2020/10/15
shelves: black-authors, fiction, science-fiction
review:
After (trying- and failing -to read) Black Leopard, Red Wolf, I was nervous to pick this one up. I let it sit for months on account of that nervousness.

And I'm here to tell you that I wish I hadn't!

This book has the appeal of being culturally and structurally different from almost everything else out there while still being relatable, epic, brilliantly narrated, and realistic in the way that matters most: human reactions and motivations.

Prentice Onayemi gives a brilliant audio performance. His narration is clear and precise. His voices are varied, distinct, and have just enough accent to add authenticity while still being easy to understand. His vocal inflections are spot on, and his tempo shifts are nearly perfect, clearly conveying the tension in any given scene.

The story opens with a brilliant prologue that gives us a wonderful taste of the magic system while establishing a bit of the world's mythology that later proves highly misunderstood.

In the main story, we're introduced to a very interesting culture and caste system s we get to know Tau, the main character.

Although he is definitely obsessive with a severe case of tunnel vision, he's a very interesting character that feels so real he's almost like a good friend now.

I have to admire and applaud his dedication.
]]> Broken 48549741
With his trademark blend of insight, humanity, humor, action and the highest level of literary craftsmanship, Winslow delivers a collection of tales that will become classics of crime fiction.]]> 352 Don Winslow 0062988913 Max 4 fiction 4.15 2020 Broken
author: Don Winslow
name: Max
average rating: 4.15
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2020/10/15
date added: 2020/10/15
shelves: fiction
review:
Have always loved the novella form, but it is rarely seen these days. Stephen King is a master, I often enjoy his more than his novels. Can’t say that about Broken, Winslow is one of my favorite authors, but I really enjoyed this wide-ranging collection. Pages with dark and fatalistic crime, angry vengeful cops, a chimp with a pistol and some oddball humor reminiscent of Joe Wambaugh, even a western-influenced tale about the modern border. Solid entertainment from a real pro.
]]> The Wolfman 6695665 The Wolfman is one of the great classics of modern horror. Now, based on the upcoming film, is a terrifying new novelization novel written by Jonathan Maberry, based on the screenplay by Andrew Kevin Walker and David Self Based on a motion picture screenplay by Curt Siodmak

Lawrence Talbot's childhood ended the night his mother died.Ěý After he left the sleepy Victorian hamlet of Blackmoor, he spent decades recovering and trying to forget.Ěý But when his brother's fiancĂ©e tracks him down to help find her missing love, Talbot returns home to join the search.Ěý He learns that something with brute strength and insatiable bloodlust has been killing the villagers, and that a suspicious Scotland Yard inspector has come to investigate.
As Talbot pieces together the gory puzzle, he hears of an ancient curse that turns the afflicted into werewolves when the moon is full.Ěý Now, if he has any chance at ending the slaughter and protecting the woman he has grown to love, Talbot must destroy the vicious creature that stalks the woods surrounding Blackmoor.Ěý But as he hunts for the nightmarish beast, a simple man with a tortured past will uncover a primal side to himself . . . one he never imagined existed.
]]> 342 Jonathan Maberry 0765365162 Max 4 fiction, science-fiction 3.83 2010 The Wolfman
author: Jonathan Maberry
name: Max
average rating: 3.83
book published: 2010
rating: 4
read at: 2020/10/08
date added: 2020/10/08
shelves: fiction, science-fiction
review:
This book by author Jonathan Maberry is described as being a 'novelization' of the film of the same name . I wasn't too sure what I would actually make of it having previously read (and enjoyed ) 'Frankensein' by Mary Shelley and 'Dracula' by Bram Stoker. With these two novels being rightly regarded as being true classics it would be very unfair to compare this 2010 novelization to them . I can ,however , report that I enjoyed reading 'The Wolfman '.The book is well written ,easy to read and follow and also quite engaging .There are a total of 342 pages in total and the chapters tend to be refreshingly short.I would recommend this book especially to fans of this particular film and also to those who are fans of the original screen 'Wolfman' as depicted in the 1940's films that were also made by the Universal film studios .In conclusion one note of caution that I will offer is that those of a nervous disposition are advised to avoid reading this book during a full Moon
]]> Sister, Sister 181405
Valerie, Inda, and Chiquita are three women looking for love in Los Angeles.

Valerie became the perfect wife to please her husband, Walter, whose football career has gone nowhere—along with their marriage. Then she meets Daniel. Valerie's divorced sister, Inda, has Raymond, who has a hot body, smooth moves—and another girlfriend on the side. Now Inda's scheming to get even. After telling her last boyfriend to hit the road, Chiquita takes up with Thaddeus, Inda and Valerie's irresistible brother. Has Chiquita finally found a good man?

Sexy and in-your-face, Sister, Sister depicts a modern world where woman may have to alter their dreams, yet never stop embracing tomorrow.

“Brims with humor, outrageousness, and affection.”— Publishers Weekly]]> 256 Eric Jerome Dickey 0451201019 Max 4 4.21 1996 Sister, Sister
author: Eric Jerome Dickey
name: Max
average rating: 4.21
book published: 1996
rating: 4
read at: 2020/04/07
date added: 2020/10/06
shelves: black-authors, fiction, erotica, to-read
review:
Great book as always by Eric jerome
]]> <![CDATA[The Living Blood (African Immortals, #2)]]> 41538 --Cynthia Ward]]> 515 Tananarive Due 0671040847 Max 4
This was a fantastic story about a monster that was a loving child. At times you have to wonder if it is a horror story or is it a story of a family with some problems.

Very imaginative book. I will be reading the next one very soon.]]> 4.35 2001 The Living Blood (African Immortals, #2)
author: Tananarive Due
name: Max
average rating: 4.35
book published: 2001
rating: 4
read at: 2020/10/06
date added: 2020/10/06
shelves: black-authors, favorites, fiction, science-fiction
review:
This was a long book - over 500 pages and for that I was grateful. I enjoyed every minute of it. There was always something going on. The sub-stories developed separetly and then came together for an exciting finale. I read the first book many years ago and so I was concerned that I would not be able to remember enough of it. Due was great at throwing in little tidbits of the original story whcih helped me to remember so even if you didnt read the first book, you could still enjoy this one.

This was a fantastic story about a monster that was a loving child. At times you have to wonder if it is a horror story or is it a story of a family with some problems.

Very imaginative book. I will be reading the next one very soon.
]]> <![CDATA[Writing Fiction: A Guide to Narrative Craft]]> 222117 448 Janet Burroway 0321277368 Max 3 non-fiction, self-help 4.12 1987 Writing Fiction: A Guide to Narrative Craft
author: Janet Burroway
name: Max
average rating: 4.12
book published: 1987
rating: 3
read at: 2020/10/06
date added: 2020/10/06
shelves: non-fiction, self-help
review:

]]> I, Robot (Robot, #0.1) 41804
I, ROBOT

They mustn't harm a human being, they must obey human orders, and they must protect their own existence...but only so long as that doesn't violate rules one and two. With these Three Laws of Robotics, humanity embarked on perhaps its greatest adventure: the invention of the first positronic man. It was a bold new era of evolution that would open up enormous possibilities—and unforeseen risks. For the scientists who invented the earliest robots weren't content that their creations should ' remain programmed helpers, companions, and semisentient worker-machines. And soon the robots themselves; aware of their own intelligence, power, and humanity, aren't either.

As humans and robots struggle to survive together—and sometimes against each other—on earth and in space, the future of both hangs in the balance. Human men and women confront robots gone mad, telepathic robots, robot politicians, and vast robotic intelligences that may already secretly control the world. And both are asking the same questions: What is human? And is humanity obsolete?

In l, Robot Isaac Asimov changes forever our perception of robots, and human beings and updates the timeless myth of man's dream to play god. with all its rewards—and terrors.
--front flap]]> 224 Isaac Asimov 0553803700 Max 0 science-fiction, to-read 4.22 1950 I, Robot (Robot, #0.1)
author: Isaac Asimov
name: Max
average rating: 4.22
book published: 1950
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/10/06
shelves: science-fiction, to-read
review:

]]> The Idiot 12505 667 Fyodor Dostoevsky 0679642420 Max 0 favorites, fiction, to-read 4.22 1869 The Idiot
author: Fyodor Dostoevsky
name: Max
average rating: 4.22
book published: 1869
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/10/03
shelves: favorites, fiction, to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Staring at the Sun: Overcoming the Terror of Death]]> 2062034 306 Irvin D. Yalom 0787996688 Max 4 4.24 2008 Staring at the Sun: Overcoming the Terror of Death
author: Irvin D. Yalom
name: Max
average rating: 4.24
book published: 2008
rating: 4
read at: 2020/09/17
date added: 2020/09/17
shelves: non-fiction, philosophy, psychology, self-help, spirituality
review:
enjoyed the book but honestly purchased the CD version and listened in my car. I think it helps to have some sort of therapy experience before reading. Nothing life changing here but it’s good to know most people have some form of death anxiety.
]]> Chapterhouse: Dune (Dune #6) 44439416
The desert planet Arrakis, called Dune, has been destroyed. The remnants of the Old Empire have been consumed by the violent matriarchal cult known as the Honored Matres. Only one faction remains a viable threat to their total conquest--the Bene Gesserit, heirs to Dune's power.

Under the leadership of Mother Superior Darwi Odrade, the Bene Gesserit have colonized a green world on the planet Chapterhouse and are turning it into a desert, mile by scorched mile. And once they've mastered breeding sandworms, the Sisterhood will control the production of the greatest commodity in the known galaxy--the spice melange. But their true weapon remains a man who has lived countless lifetimes--a man who served under the God Emperor Paul Muad'Dib....]]> 609 Frank Herbert 0593098277 Max 4 favorites, science-fiction 3.83 1985 Chapterhouse: Dune (Dune #6)
author: Frank Herbert
name: Max
average rating: 3.83
book published: 1985
rating: 4
read at: 2020/09/17
date added: 2020/09/17
shelves: favorites, science-fiction
review:
Frank spent a great deal of time dealing with what felt like needless obfuscation in this final entry. The Bene Gesserit have always been a group so far advanced in mental disciplines that you can read the words and feel like you're missing the real meaning. This has actually been something I've always enjoyed about them, because it doesn't feel like nonsense. It feels like a real offshoot of modern humanity, and a believable eventuality of dedicated breeding in a sci-fi universe. Be that as it may, it felt like Frank was shuffling his feet in some areas here. One could site real-life influences for this (Frank gives an absolutely beautiful tribute at the end to his wife Bev who died during the writing of this book), or perhaps it had more to do with my own mental space and mood while reading it, but no matter the reason it is a truth of my experience. Important to note though, I think he wrote a hell of an ending for this one. The problems I had with the earlier portions of the book completely dropped away in the last hundred pages or so, and I was incredibly eager for more. Which, of course, made Frank's death only a year after the publishing of Chapterhouse hurt even worse.
]]> <![CDATA[Jung: A Very Short Introduction]]> 297554
About the Series: Combining authority with wit, accessibility, and style, Very Short Introductions offer an introduction to some of life's most interesting topics. Written by experts for the newcomer, they demonstrate the finest contemporary thinking about the central problems and issues in hundreds of key topics, from philosophy to Freud, quantum theory to Islam.
]]> 192 Anthony Stevens 0192854585 Max 4 4.06 1994 Jung: A Very Short Introduction
author: Anthony Stevens
name: Max
average rating: 4.06
book published: 1994
rating: 4
read at: 2020/09/10
date added: 2020/09/10
shelves: biography, non-fiction, philosophy, psychology, spirituality
review:
The perfect short introduction to the works and life of Carl Jung. It demystifies many of Jung's writings and briefly explains the origins of the enigmatic Red Book. Stevens humanizes his subject and brings the mysterious teachings of analytic psychology out of the mists for the casual reader. A fine introduction for students of psychology, literature, and mythology.
]]> God Emperor of Dune (Dune #4) 44439415
Millennia have passed on Arrakis, and the once-desert planet is green with life. Leto Atreides, the son of the world's savior, the Emperor Paul Muad'Dib, is still alive but far from human. To preserve humanity's future, he sacrificed his own by merging with a sandworm, granting him near immortality as God Emperor of Dune for the past thirty-five hundred years.

Leto's rule is not a benevolent one. His transformation has made not only his appearance but his morality inhuman. A rebellion, led by Siona, a member of the Atreides family, has risen to oppose the despot's rule. But Siona is unaware that Leto's vision of a Golden Path for humanity requires her to fulfill a destiny she never wanted--or could possibly conceive....

Includes an introduction by Brian Herbert]]> 587 Frank Herbert 0593098250 Max 4
It will be too wordy for some, too philosophical and tedious. For me, it's a deep book that, in usual Herbert style, educates you on a myriad of topics as you read it. For me, it's a book I've read multiple times because it's just that rich. For me, it's a return to that wonderful universe Frank Herbert created, and, despite the changes and time that's passed, it still feels like home.]]> 3.91 1981 God Emperor of Dune (Dune #4)
author: Frank Herbert
name: Max
average rating: 3.91
book published: 1981
rating: 4
read at: 2020/08/27
date added: 2020/08/27
shelves: favorites, fiction, science-fiction
review:
For those who have read the first 3 books of Herbert's Dune series, God Emperor of Dune is both familiar and strange. Leto II is Emperor, but 3,000 years have passed from the end of the previous novel, and Leto and the universe have drastically changed. Leto is worshipped as a God and has an army of females, the Fish Speakers, who fanatically enforce his will. And what is his will? No less than the long-term survival of the human species, his precious prophecy, known as "The Golden Path". To understand it all, you need to understand Leto. But how do you understand a being who's lived for millennia AND has access to the memories of ALL his ancestors? Well, by reading this book!

It will be too wordy for some, too philosophical and tedious. For me, it's a deep book that, in usual Herbert style, educates you on a myriad of topics as you read it. For me, it's a book I've read multiple times because it's just that rich. For me, it's a return to that wonderful universe Frank Herbert created, and, despite the changes and time that's passed, it still feels like home.
]]> Pale 48579026
The summer of 1966 burned hot across America but nowhere hotter than the cotton fields of Mississippi. Finding herself in a precarious position as a black woman living alone, Bernice accepts her brother Floyd’s invitation to join him as a servant for a white family and she enters the web of hostility and deception that is the Kern plantation household.

The secrets of the house are plentiful yet the silence that has encompassed it for so many years suddenly breaks with the arrival of the harvest and the appearance of Jesse and Fletcher to the plantation as cotton pickers. These two brothers, the sons of the house servant Silva, awaken a vengeful seed within the Missus of the house as she plots to punish not only her husband but Silva’s family as well. When the Missus starts flirting with Jesse, she sets into motion a dangerous game that could get Jesse killed and destroy the lives of the rest of the servants.

Bernice walks the fine line between emissary and accomplice, as she tries her best to draw secrets from the Missus’s heart, while using their closeness to protect the lives of the people around her. Once the Missus’s plans are complete, families will be severed, loyalties will be shattered, and no one will come out unscathed.

With a dazzling voice and rich emotional tension, Pale explores the ties that bind and how quickly humanity can fade and return us to primal ways.]]> 256 Edward A. Farmer 1982673869 Max 0 3.96 2020 Pale
author: Edward A. Farmer
name: Max
average rating: 3.96
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/08/24
shelves: black-authors, fiction, mystery, to-read
review:

]]> One Second After (After, #1) 4922079 New York Times best-selling author William R. Forstchen now brings us a story which can be all too terrifyingly real ... a story in which one man struggles to save his family and his small North Carolina town after America loses a war, in one second, a war that will send America back to the Dark Ages ... A war based upon a weapon, an Electro Magnetic Pulse (EMP). A weapon that may already be in the hands of our enemies.

Months before publication, One Second After has already been cited on the floor of Congress as a book all Americans should read, a book already being discussed in the corridors of the Pentagon as a truly realistic look at a weapon and its awesome power to destroy the entire United States, literally within one second. It is a weapon that the Wall Street Journal warns could shatter America. In the tradition of On the Beach, Fail Safe, and Testament, this book, set in a typical American town, is a dire warning of what might be our future ... and our end.]]> 352 William R. Forstchen 0765317583 Max 4 fiction, science-fiction
One Second After describes the events the precipitate from an attack on the US using an Electro-Magnetic Pulse (EMP) weapon. The EMP's effect is to render all but the simplest electronics useless -- not just temporarily, but permanently. Pretty much anything with solid-state circuits (radios, computers, cars, power generation, etc.) is immediately, and permanently ruined.

The story centers on a small town in North Carolina as the residents try to cope with the loss of most of the tools they've become dependent on to survive. Mr. Forstchen paints a very bleak picture of the impacts on the town due to the loss of electricity, food sources, medicines, sanitation, etc. as the town leaders struggle to obtain the means to survive and still maintain a sense of humanity. All the while, dealing with a breakdown of civilization and the loss of the normal rules of societal interaction -- facing threats from within their own ranks, occasionally, but mostly from urban area "refugees" seeking a means to survive on their own. Add in lawless gangs of marauders, and the town's residents are forced to make some difficult decisions.

The story's main protagonist is a retired Army Colonel, now a historian at a local college. He acts as an adviser to the town's leadership, and also as a moral compass -- struggling with them (and sometimes with himself) on difficult decisions between what's right and what's necessary.

My only criticism concerns Mr. Forstchen's development of characters. While the book is quite readable and the characters believable, the personalities involved aren't very distinct at times. I found it occasionally difficult to discern the differences in dialog between the various characters because of their similarities. Still, a very entertaining (if not sometimes disturbing) story. I was able to develop a great deal of empathy for the characters, and was emotionally moved for their losses at times.

A footnote: Although I am somewhat familiar with the science behind it, the effects of an EMP attack on our technology described in the book at first seemed a bit exaggerated. After some deeper research into the topic, I'm beginning to think it wasn't quite so exaggerated, after all.... It is quite frightening to realize how vulnerable we are due to our dependence on these things. If you're not the least bit concerned about these things, you will be after reading this book.]]> 3.92 2009 One Second After (After, #1)
author: William R. Forstchen
name: Max
average rating: 3.92
book published: 2009
rating: 4
read at: 2020/08/24
date added: 2020/08/24
shelves: fiction, science-fiction
review:
A rather frightening reminder of how dependent we are on the smallest bit of technology that permeates our lives.

One Second After describes the events the precipitate from an attack on the US using an Electro-Magnetic Pulse (EMP) weapon. The EMP's effect is to render all but the simplest electronics useless -- not just temporarily, but permanently. Pretty much anything with solid-state circuits (radios, computers, cars, power generation, etc.) is immediately, and permanently ruined.

The story centers on a small town in North Carolina as the residents try to cope with the loss of most of the tools they've become dependent on to survive. Mr. Forstchen paints a very bleak picture of the impacts on the town due to the loss of electricity, food sources, medicines, sanitation, etc. as the town leaders struggle to obtain the means to survive and still maintain a sense of humanity. All the while, dealing with a breakdown of civilization and the loss of the normal rules of societal interaction -- facing threats from within their own ranks, occasionally, but mostly from urban area "refugees" seeking a means to survive on their own. Add in lawless gangs of marauders, and the town's residents are forced to make some difficult decisions.

The story's main protagonist is a retired Army Colonel, now a historian at a local college. He acts as an adviser to the town's leadership, and also as a moral compass -- struggling with them (and sometimes with himself) on difficult decisions between what's right and what's necessary.

My only criticism concerns Mr. Forstchen's development of characters. While the book is quite readable and the characters believable, the personalities involved aren't very distinct at times. I found it occasionally difficult to discern the differences in dialog between the various characters because of their similarities. Still, a very entertaining (if not sometimes disturbing) story. I was able to develop a great deal of empathy for the characters, and was emotionally moved for their losses at times.

A footnote: Although I am somewhat familiar with the science behind it, the effects of an EMP attack on our technology described in the book at first seemed a bit exaggerated. After some deeper research into the topic, I'm beginning to think it wasn't quite so exaggerated, after all.... It is quite frightening to realize how vulnerable we are due to our dependence on these things. If you're not the least bit concerned about these things, you will be after reading this book.
]]> One Night in Georgia 41952108 One of “The 17 Best Summer Reads of 2019” by Harper’s Bazaar!

Set in the summer of 1968, a provocative and devastating novel of individual lives caught in the grips of violent history—a timely and poignant story that reverberates with the power of Alice Walker’s Meridian and Ntozake Shange’s Betsey Browne.

At the end of a sweltering summer shaped by the tragic assassinations of Martin Luther King, Jr., and Bobby Kennedy, race riots, political protests, and the birth of Black power, three coeds from New York City—Zelda Livingston, Veronica Cook, and Daphne Brooks—pack into Veronica’s new Ford Fairlane convertible, bound for Atlanta and their last year at Spelman College. It is the beginning a journey that will change their lives irrevocably.

Unlikely friends from vastly different backgrounds, the trio has been inseparable since freshman year. Zelda, serious and unyielding, the heir of rebellious slaves and freedom riders, sees the world in black versus white. Veronica, the privileged daughter of a refined, wealthy family, strongly believes in integration and racial uplift. Daphne lives with a legacy of loss—when she was five years old, her black mother committed suicide and her white father abandoned her.

Because they will be going their separate ways after graduation, Zelda, Veronica, and Daphne intend to make lasting memories on this special trip. Though they are young and carefree, they aren’t foolish. Joined by Veronica’s family friend Daniel, they rely on the Motorist Green Book to find racially friendly locations for gas, rest, and food. Still, with the sun on their cheeks, the wind in their hair, and Motown on the radio, the girls revel in their freedom. Yet as the miles fly by, taking them closer to the Mason-Dixon line, tension begins to rise and the conversation turns serious when Daphne shares a horrifying secret about her life.

When they hit Washington, D.C., the joyous trip turns dark. In Virginia they barely escape a desperate situation when prison guards mistake Daniel for an escapee. Further south they barely make it through a sundown town. When the car breaks down in Georgia they are caught up in a racially hostile situation that leaves a white person dead and one of the girls holding the gun.]]> 297 Celeste O. Norfleet 0062329898 Max 4 black-authors, fiction
And these ladies come face-to-face with danger and Celeste Norfleet builds drama and worry without going overly dramatic. So, we ride along with Zelda, the stereotypical centered individual with Veronica, the not so serious sidekick along with Daphne who goes along to get along.

Although this is a quick read, Celeste took enough time to build the characters so that we readers get a feel for the different personalities without sacrificing quality. I enjoyed this story and would recommend as a nice summer indulgence.Ěý]]> 3.55 2019 One Night in Georgia
author: Celeste O. Norfleet
name: Max
average rating: 3.55
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2020/08/19
date added: 2020/08/19
shelves: black-authors, fiction
review:
A quick and cute read about three friends taking a road trip to Georgia from Harlem NYC in their return to Spelman College after a short summer in NY. An easy going prose propels this novel as three college aged females make the decision to drive to Georgia in 1968, and driving through the South in that time is fraught with danger and trepidation.

And these ladies come face-to-face with danger and Celeste Norfleet builds drama and worry without going overly dramatic. So, we ride along with Zelda, the stereotypical centered individual with Veronica, the not so serious sidekick along with Daphne who goes along to get along.

Although this is a quick read, Celeste took enough time to build the characters so that we readers get a feel for the different personalities without sacrificing quality. I enjoyed this story and would recommend as a nice summer indulgence.Ěý
]]> <![CDATA[Latino Americans: The 500-Year Legacy That Shaped a Nation]]> 15985358
Latino Americans chronicles the rich and varied history of Latinos, who have helped shaped our nation and have become, with more than fifty million people, the largest minority in the United States.

Author and acclaimed journalist Ray Suarez explores the lives of Latino American men and women over a five-hundred-year span, encompassing an epic range of experiences from the early European settlements to Manifest Destiny; the Wild West to the Cold War; the Great Depression to globalization; and the Spanish-American War to the civil rights movement.

Latino Americans shares the personal struggles and successes of immigrants, poets, soldiers, and many others—individuals who have made an impact on history, as well as those whose extraordinary lives shed light on the times in which they lived, and the legacy of this incredible American people.]]> 272 Ray Suarez 0451238141 Max 4 3.86 2013 Latino Americans: The 500-Year Legacy That Shaped a Nation
author: Ray Suarez
name: Max
average rating: 3.86
book published: 2013
rating: 4
read at: 2020/08/15
date added: 2020/08/15
shelves: biography, history, non-fiction
review:
Latino Americans: The 500 Year Legacy that Shaped a Nation is a fascinating look at the historical forces that affects Hispanic Americans. It is very readable and filled with facts and antedotes which provides the reader with insight and understanding.
]]> Neuromancer (Sprawl, #1) 6088007 Neuromancer is a cyberpunk, science fiction masterpiece—a classic that ranks with 1984 and Brave New World as one of the twentieth century’s most potent visions of the future.

The Matrix is a world within the world, a global consensus-hallucination, the representation of every byte of data in cyberspace...

Henry Dorsett Case was the sharpest data-thief in the business, until vengeful former employees crippled his nervous system. But now a new and very mysterious employer recruits him for a last-chance run. The target: an unthinkably powerful artificial intelligence orbiting Earth in service of the sinister Tessier-Ashpool business clan. With a dead man riding shotgun and Molly, mirror-eyed street-samurai, to watch his back, Case embarks on an adventure that ups the ante on an entire genre of fiction.

The winner of the Hugo, Nebula, and Philip K. Dick Awards, Neuromancer was the first fully-realized glimpse of humankind’s digital future—a shocking vision that has challenged our assumptions about our technology and ourselves, reinvented the way we speak and think, and forever altered the landscape of our imaginations.]]> 288 William Gibson Max 3 fiction, science-fiction
Neuromancer's largest flaw, for this reader, was the projection of drug addiction as being an inextricable part of cyberpunk culture. The obvious fallacy was that a culture capable of neural regeneration, cloning, cryogenic immortality, bionic augmentation, and space travel, would most certainly have mechanisms for simulated pleasure "trips" that would not result in biological damage to the user, and certainly no physical day-after hangover. In this respect, I found the plot flawed, particularly because Michael Crichton intelligently dealt with the topic of pleasure seeking in "Terminal Man". The ongoing use of damaging drugs was inconsistent with the technical skill set for Case, the Neuromancer protagonist.

My secondary criticism relates to the absence of any moral compass for evaluating behavioral motivations for the characters. The result was that many of the characters seemed flat, lacking any of the personal depth that comes from addressing inner conflicts associated with decision making.

I came away from the book disappointed. It wasn't poorly written, and the ending left me satisfied. But it did not leave me wanting to read more of this trilogy]]> 3.94 1984 Neuromancer (Sprawl, #1)
author: William Gibson
name: Max
average rating: 3.94
book published: 1984
rating: 3
read at: 2020/08/10
date added: 2020/08/10
shelves: fiction, science-fiction
review:
Neuromancer will offer fans of The Matrix franchise some early glimpses of major plot elements, including "Zion", "jacking" into artificial worlds, cyberpunk culture and even AI control scenarios. I found so many native "Matrix" concepts in the book that the movie franchise now seems to be a giant rip-off of Gibson ideas.

Neuromancer's largest flaw, for this reader, was the projection of drug addiction as being an inextricable part of cyberpunk culture. The obvious fallacy was that a culture capable of neural regeneration, cloning, cryogenic immortality, bionic augmentation, and space travel, would most certainly have mechanisms for simulated pleasure "trips" that would not result in biological damage to the user, and certainly no physical day-after hangover. In this respect, I found the plot flawed, particularly because Michael Crichton intelligently dealt with the topic of pleasure seeking in "Terminal Man". The ongoing use of damaging drugs was inconsistent with the technical skill set for Case, the Neuromancer protagonist.

My secondary criticism relates to the absence of any moral compass for evaluating behavioral motivations for the characters. The result was that many of the characters seemed flat, lacking any of the personal depth that comes from addressing inner conflicts associated with decision making.

I came away from the book disappointed. It wasn't poorly written, and the ending left me satisfied. But it did not leave me wanting to read more of this trilogy
]]> Children of Dune (Dune #3) 44492286
The Children of Dune are twin siblings Leto and Ghanima Atreides, whose father, the Emperor Paul Muad'Dib, disappeared in the desert wastelands of Arrakis nine years ago. Like their father, the twins possess supernormal abilities--making them valuable to their manipulative aunt Alia, who rules the Empire in the name of House Atreides.

Facing treason and rebellion on two fronts, Alia's rule is not absolute. The displaced House Corrino is plotting to regain the throne while the fanatical Fremen are being provoked into open revolt by the enigmatic figure known only as The Preacher. Alia believes that by obtaining the secrets of the twins' prophetic visions, she can maintain control over her dynasty.

But Leto and Ghanima have their own plans for their visions--and their destinies....

Includes an introduction by Brian Herbert]]> 609 Frank Herbert 0593098242 Max 5 science-fiction
This is a particularly well-written story that has great characters and a cohesive storyline. Herbert's imaginative story is compelling in it's complexity and smooth crafting. I feel that it is one of the best works of fiction ever crafted as it holds it's integrity while imagining an extended timeline that presents well-developed characters and events. My only sadness about the series is that Mr. Herbert passed before writing the seventh book that looks as to be the climax of a powerful masterpiece of literature.

This series is a joy to read.]]> 3.96 1976 Children of Dune (Dune #3)
author: Frank Herbert
name: Max
average rating: 3.96
book published: 1976
rating: 5
read at: 2020/08/10
date added: 2020/08/10
shelves: science-fiction
review:
This is one of the best series of books ever written.

This is a particularly well-written story that has great characters and a cohesive storyline. Herbert's imaginative story is compelling in it's complexity and smooth crafting. I feel that it is one of the best works of fiction ever crafted as it holds it's integrity while imagining an extended timeline that presents well-developed characters and events. My only sadness about the series is that Mr. Herbert passed before writing the seventh book that looks as to be the climax of a powerful masterpiece of literature.

This series is a joy to read.
]]> Sandstorm (Sigma Force, #1) 183822
And now the search for answers is leading Lady Kara Kensington; her friend Safia al-Maaz, the gallery's brilliant and beautiful curator; and their guide, the international adventurer Omaha Dunn, into a world they never dreamed existed: a lost city buried beneath the Arabian desert.

But others are being drawn there as well, some with dark and sinister purposes. And the many perils of a death-defying trek deep into the savage heart of the Arabian Peninsula pale before the nightmare waiting to be unearthed at journey's end: an ageless and awesome power that could create a utopia... or destroy everything humankind has built over countless millennia.]]> 574 James Rollins 0060580674 Max 3 science-fiction 3.95 2004 Sandstorm (Sigma Force, #1)
author: James Rollins
name: Max
average rating: 3.95
book published: 2004
rating: 3
read at: 2020/08/10
date added: 2020/08/10
shelves: science-fiction
review:
Sandstorm" is an entertaining read, a somewhat-lite adventure story that's parts Indiana Jones (there's even a character that is named Omaha Dunn and teasingly nicknamed Indy), parts Dan Brown-wannabe. Religion, legends, myth and science-fiction elements are all whipped up together to tell the story of a journey in the search of the lost city of Ubar, after a suspicious explosion at a museum that contained Arabian relics. I say it's somewhat-lite because often the reader will be exposed to convoluted scientific explanations or brief, history lessons. However, neither the scientific nor the historical explanations seemed realistic to me, always shrouded in mysticism or fantasy. Simply put, I didn't really buy most of what was written, but it was easy to just casually accept it and continue with the story, after all, the Indiana Jones movies were rife with religious connotations. What I liked best were the numerous action scenes and usage of advanced technology. I also liked one of the main characters, Painter Crowe, a Native American top-notch agent, highly capable in both military and scientific operations. The rest of the cast is just okay, some coming across whiny, or even boring. Omaha Dunn, the adventurer, never really compares to the other main male lead, Painter. The main female lead, Safia, is not really that interesting either, seemingly just forced to go through the motions of the story.
]]> <![CDATA[Respect: The Life of Aretha Franklin]]> 20980651
Aretha Franklin began life as the golden daughter of a progressive and promiscuous Baptist preacher. Raised without her mother, she was a gospel prodigy who gave birth to two sons in her teens and left them and her native Detroit for New York, where she struggled to find her true voice. It was not until 1967, when a white Jewish producer insisted she return to her gospel-soul roots, that fame and fortune finally came via "Respect" and a rapidfire string of hits. She continued to evolve for decades, amidst personal tragedy, surprise Grammy performances, and career reinventions.

Again and again, Aretha stubbornly found a way to triumph over troubles, even as they continued to build. Her hold on the crown was tenacious, and in Respect , David Ritz gives us the definitive life of one of the greatest talents in all American culture.
Ěý]]> 528 David Ritz 0316196835 Max 5 3.81 2014 Respect: The Life of Aretha Franklin
author: David Ritz
name: Max
average rating: 3.81
book published: 2014
rating: 5
read at: 2020/07/31
date added: 2020/07/31
shelves: biography, history, music, non-fiction
review:
I have read many, many books about music, particularly jazz, R&B, soul and pop and had modest expectations for this. Ritz did a decent job with the Marvin book, but I wasn't sure what he could do with Aretha, notorious for being stone cold control freak. So I was very pleasantly surprised how much new information and insight this book offers. Ritz is no lyrical writer like Peter Guaralnick but he is authoritative and has certainly done his homework here. His sources are very credible and in a position to offer details and opinions that span decades of observations and interactions with Aretha. She comes across as a very small and tragic victim of her own unacknowledged psychological issues, although I do think Ritz sees heroism and perseverance where I see a petty, arrogant woman who was blessed with talents that she took for granted or disrespected. Couldn't put this down; well worth a read for any fan of music from the last 60 years.
]]> <![CDATA[The Book of Koli (Rampart Trilogy, #1)]]> 51285749
Koli has lived in Mythen Rood his entire life. He knows the first rule of survival is that you don't venture beyond the walls.

What he doesn't know is - what happens when you aren't given a choice?

The first in a gripping new trilogy, The Book of Koli charts the journey of one unforgettable young boy struggling to find his place in a chilling post-apocalyptic world.]]> 416 M.R. Carey 0316477532 Max 4 fiction, science-fiction But seriously, loved it. Love Carey's narratives, the first person tone took a bit of time to tune into, certainly didn't detract from the character development. Beautiful story teller who never lets me down... Except for that pesky wait time!]]> 3.99 2020 The Book of Koli (Rampart Trilogy, #1)
author: M.R. Carey
name: Max
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2020/07/31
date added: 2020/07/31
shelves: fiction, science-fiction
review:
I got hoodwinked!! Finished Book 1, hungry for Books 2 & 3... Discovered there's some wait time.... NOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!
But seriously, loved it. Love Carey's narratives, the first person tone took a bit of time to tune into, certainly didn't detract from the character development. Beautiful story teller who never lets me down... Except for that pesky wait time!
]]> <![CDATA[The American Slave Coast: A History of the Slave-Breeding Industry]]> 25246348
The American Slave Coast offers a provocative vision of US history from earliest colonial times through emancipation that presents even the most familiar events and figures in a revealing new light.

Authors Ned and Constance Sublette tell the brutal story of how the slavery industry made the reproductive labor of the people it referred to as “breeding women” essential to the young country’s expansion. Captive African Americans in the slave nation were not only laborers, but merchandise and collateral all at once. In a land without silver, gold, or trustworthy paper money, their children and their children’s children into perpetuity were used as human savings accounts that functioned as the basis of money and credit in a market premised on the continual expansion of slavery. Slaveowners collected interest in the form of newborns, who had a cash value at birth and whose mothers had no legal right to say no to forced mating. Ěý

This gripping narrative is driven by the power struggle between the elites of Virginia, the slave-raising “mother of slavery,” and South Carolina, the massive importer of Africans—a conflict that was central to American politics from the making of the Constitution through the debacle of the Confederacy.

Virginia slaveowners won a major victory when Thomas Jefferson’s 1808 prohibition of the African slave trade protected the domestic slave markets for slave-breeding. The interstate slave trade exploded in Mississippi during the presidency of Andrew Jackson, drove the US expansion into Texas, and powered attempts to take over Cuba and other parts of Latin America, until a disaffected South Carolina spearheaded the drive to secession and war, forcing the Virginians to secede or lose their slave-breeding industry.

Filled with surprising facts, fascinating incidents, and startling portraits of the people who made, endured, and resisted the slave-breeding industry, The American Slave Coast culminates in the revolutionary Emancipation Proclamation, which at last decommissioned the capitalized womb and armed the African Americans to fight for their freedom.]]> 752 Ned Sublette 1613748205 Max 5 history, non-fiction 4.44 2015 The American Slave Coast: A History of the Slave-Breeding Industry
author: Ned Sublette
name: Max
average rating: 4.44
book published: 2015
rating: 5
read at: 2020/07/31
date added: 2020/07/31
shelves: history, non-fiction
review:
The history that most often appears in the high school text does serious damage to the truth of the founding of the country. How often we think we know events and people but soon learn that the real story is much more complicated or even that the original story is a lie. This is the experience I had over and over again as I read this outstanding book. It was well written, thoroughly researched and riveting in providing a new portrait of events that I thought I knew. It's a page-turner. The documentation was exceptional. If only "the people" could know the truth. Well, now you can. By simply reading this book, you learn year-by-year, president-by-president the choices they faced and the decisions they made. The country's constitution is re-aligned. All is contextualized. Often known and repeated quotes appear different, richer, truer. Thought patterns that began then, now have just been updated. The "why" of the pattern is clear. Many new people are presented and interwoven in the saga. The birth, education and experiences of many known people are told in a way that you grasp who they really were, not the ones text books told us about. This book is exceptional and I hope many more people will open their eyes to the true American legacy. We are not the country we have been told. This book adds many new, essential missing pieces.ĚýThrough the Lens of the Transatlantic Slave Trade
]]> <![CDATA[How Europe Underdeveloped Africa]]> 40630 The decisiveness of the short period of colonialism and its negative consequences for Africa spring mainly from the fact that Africa lost power. Power is the ultimate determinant in human society, being basic to the relations within any group and between groups. It implies the ability to defend one's interests and if necessary to impose one’s will by any means available. In relations between peoples, the question of power determines maneuverability in bargaining, the extent to which a people survive as a physical and cultural entity. When one society finds itself forced to relinquish power entirely to another society, that in itself is a form of underdevelopment.
Before a bomb ended his life in the summer of 1980, Walter Rodney had created a powerful legacy. This pivotal work, How Europe Underdeveloped Africa, had already brought a new perspective to the question of underdevelopment in Africa. his Marxist analysis went far beyond the heretofore accepted approach in the study of Third World underdevelopment. How Europe Underdeveloped Africa is an excellent introductory study for the student who wishes to better understand the dynamics of Africa’s contemporary relations with the West.]]> 312 Walter Rodney 0882580965 Max 5 4.43 1971 How Europe Underdeveloped Africa
author: Walter Rodney
name: Max
average rating: 4.43
book published: 1971
rating: 5
read at: 2020/07/18
date added: 2020/07/18
shelves: black-authors, economics, favorites, history, non-fiction
review:
This book really provides the connection between capitalism, enslaved Africans as capital and the modern economy and how it all emerged out of the natural progressions from feudalism. Very interesting. This should be read with Gerald Horn's book about the United States American Revolution and the counter revolution of the enslaved African's who in large part provided a major reason for the US's breaking away from the British. You really see how the victors get the spoils and get to define history.
]]> <![CDATA[The Black Jacobins: Toussaint L'Ouverture and the San Domingo Revolution]]> 775985
“One of the seminal texts about the history of slavery and abolition.... Provocative and empowering.” — The New York Times Book Review

The Black Jacobins, by Trinidadian historian C. L. R. James, was the first major analysis of the uprising that began in the wake of the storming of the Bastille in France and became the model for liberation movements from Africa to Cuba. It is the story of the French colony of San Domingo, a place where the brutality of plantation owners toward enslaved people was horrifyingly severe.

And it is the story of a charismatic and barely literate enslaved person named Toussaint L’Ouverture, who successfully led the Black people of San Domingo against successive invasions by overwhelming French, Spanish, and English forces—and in the process helped form the first independent post-colonial nation in the Caribbean.

With a new introduction (2023) by Professor David Scott.]]> 428 C.L.R. James 0679724672 Max 5 4.39 1938 The Black Jacobins: Toussaint L'Ouverture and the San Domingo Revolution
author: C.L.R. James
name: Max
average rating: 4.39
book published: 1938
rating: 5
read at: 2020/07/18
date added: 2020/07/18
shelves: biography, black-authors, favorites, history, non-fiction
review:
C.L.R. James' seminal work is an incredible feat of scholarship and a real labour of love. The history of the split of Hispaniola (into Dominican Republic and Haiti) and the enduring impact of the events faithfully retold in this book should be compulsory reading for all students of history, and indeed all those who wonder why Haiti is the poorest country in the world today. And in Toussaint L'Overture we have one of the greatest underappreciated historical figures - a man whose achievements in repelling waves of attempted manipulation and domination by the great powers of the day - Britain, Spain and France - despite a humble slave background and limited education, makes him all the more remarkable. As the leader of the revolution which resulted in the establishment of the first independent African Caribbean state and first black-led republic in the world as it then was, the story of Toussaint as was completed by his able and equally phenomenal lieutenant Dessalines is one for the ages, and C.L.R. James has superbly honoured their memory and achievements here.
]]> More Myself: A Journey 44431860 An intimate, revealing look at one artist’s journey from self-censorship to full expressionAs one of the most celebrated musicians in the world, Alicia Keys has enraptured the globe with her heartfelt lyrics, extraordinary vocal range, and soul-stirring piano compositions. Yet away from the spotlight, Alicia has grappled with private heartache—over the challenging and complex relationship with her father, the people-pleasing nature that characterized her early career, the loss of privacy surrounding her romantic relationships, and the oppressive expectations of female perfection.Since Alicia rose to fame, her public persona has belied a deep personal she has spent years not fully recognizing or honoring her own worth. After withholding parts of herself for so long, she is at last exploring the questions that live at the heart of her Who am I, really? And once I discover that truth, how can I become brave enough to embrace it?More Myself is part autobiography, part narrative documentary. Alicia’s journey is revealed not only through her own candid recounting, but also through vivid recollections from those who have walked alongside her. The result is a 360-degree perspective on Alicia’s path, from her girlhood in Hell’s Kitchen and Harlem to the process of growth and self-discovery that we all must navigate.In More Myself, Alicia shares her quest for truth—about herself, her past, and her shift from sacrificing her spirit to celebrating her worth. With the raw honesty that epitomizes Alicia’s artistry, More Myself is at once a riveting account and a clarion call to to define themselves in a world that rarely encourages a true and unique identity.]]> 272 Alicia Keys 1250153301 Max 3 4.14 2020 More Myself: A Journey
author: Alicia Keys
name: Max
average rating: 4.14
book published: 2020
rating: 3
read at: 2020/07/18
date added: 2020/07/18
shelves: biography, black-authors, music, non-fiction, self-help
review:
First, Alicia is someone who I have looked up to since I was a child and was one of my major idols growing up. That being said, however I really do feel that this book is very superficial and really did not go into depth about anything. As someone who has been following her for nearly 20 years, I am honestly kinda disappointed. I was hoping this book would be more genuine and deep, and a more thoughtful detailing about how her past experiences shaped who she is now, but I didn’t get that all. Such a shame to cause I really tried to get into this book but I just couldn’t.
]]> <![CDATA[Medical Apartheid: The Dark History of Medical Experimentation on Black Americans from Colonial Times to the Present]]> 114192

Medical Apartheid is the first and only comprehensive history of medical experimentation on African Americans. Starting with the earliest encounters between black Americans and Western medical researchers and the racist pseudoscience that resulted, it details the ways both slaves and freedmen were used in hospitals for experiments conducted without their knowledge—a tradition that continues today within some black populations. It reveals how blacks have historically been prey to grave-robbing as well as unauthorized autopsies and dissections. Moving into the twentieth century, it shows how the pseudoscience of eugenics and social Darwinism was used to justify experimental exploitation and shoddy medical treatment of blacks, and the view that they were biologically inferior, oversexed, and unfit for adult responsibilities. Shocking new details about the government’s notorious Tuskegee experiment are revealed, as are similar, less-well-known medical atrocities conducted by the government, the armed forces, prisons, and private institutions.

The product of years of prodigious research into medical journals and experimental reports long undisturbed, Medical Apartheid reveals the hidden underbelly of scientific research and makes possible, for the first time, an understanding of the roots of the African American health deficit. At last, it provides the fullest possible context for comprehending the behavioral fallout that has caused black Americans to view researchers—and indeed the whole medical establishment—with such deep distrust. No one concerned with issues of public health and racial justice can afford not to read Medical Apartheid, a masterful book that will stir up both controversy and long-needed debate.]]> 501 Harriet A. Washington 0385509936 Max 5 Harriet Washington traces American racism from a medical standpoint from the early days, when science was more curious than anything else, to the days of slavery, when religion and science went hand in hand to justify by divine sanction, on the one hand, and by scientific reason, on the other, that black slaves were inferior to their white masters - morally, physically and mentally; after the end of slavery, when that brand of religious racism held less sway, Darwinism was pulled into the mix; and, now, when words such as "inferior" are never used in a racial context, expect in a discussion of historical viewpoints, or by the most ardent racists, other, more insidious terms pop up - for the same purposes of exploitation and abuse. While the evolution of racism in the US is not the main topic of this book, it is inevitably linked; this book is an interesting look at how the two, racism and racist abuse of minorities, have worked together throughout American history. This book is easy to read language-wise, although the content is very difficult at times.]]> 4.42 2007 Medical Apartheid: The Dark History of Medical Experimentation on Black Americans from Colonial Times to the Present
author: Harriet A. Washington
name: Max
average rating: 4.42
book published: 2007
rating: 5
read at: 2020/06/22
date added: 2020/06/22
shelves: history, non-fiction, science, black-authors, health
review:
As its title states, this book examines the history of medically "justified" and pseudo-science backed abuses of black Americans from colonial to modern times.
Harriet Washington traces American racism from a medical standpoint from the early days, when science was more curious than anything else, to the days of slavery, when religion and science went hand in hand to justify by divine sanction, on the one hand, and by scientific reason, on the other, that black slaves were inferior to their white masters - morally, physically and mentally; after the end of slavery, when that brand of religious racism held less sway, Darwinism was pulled into the mix; and, now, when words such as "inferior" are never used in a racial context, expect in a discussion of historical viewpoints, or by the most ardent racists, other, more insidious terms pop up - for the same purposes of exploitation and abuse. While the evolution of racism in the US is not the main topic of this book, it is inevitably linked; this book is an interesting look at how the two, racism and racist abuse of minorities, have worked together throughout American history. This book is easy to read language-wise, although the content is very difficult at times.
]]> <![CDATA[Medicine and Slavery: The Diseases and Health Care of Blacks in Antebellum Virginia]]> 390790
In Medicine and Slavery, Todd L. Savitt evaluates the diet, hygiene, clothing, and living and working conditions of antebellum African Americans, slave and free, and analyzes the diseases and health conditions that afflicted them in urban areas, at industrial sites, and on plantations.
Ěý]]> 352 Todd L. Savitt 025200874X Max 0 to-read 4.04 1978 Medicine and Slavery: The Diseases and Health Care of Blacks in Antebellum Virginia
author: Todd L. Savitt
name: Max
average rating: 4.04
book published: 1978
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/06/15
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Occult Book: A Chronological Journey from Alchemy to Wicca (Union Square & Co. Chronologies)]]> 34525406 Take an enlightening journey through occult history, exploring 100 dramatic incidents, arcane knowledge, and key historical figures from around the world. John Michael Greer delves into two millennia of tradition, from the earliest alchemists to pagan rituals; from the Philosopher’s Stone to Cabala, the first tarot, and the Knights Templar; and from the first horoscopes to fortune-telling trials and the birth of modern witchcraft, or Wicca. Each entry features a stunning image or intriguing item of ephemera.]]> 212 John Michael Greer 1454925779 Max 5 Also refreshing is Greer's attention to detail and what can be reliably substantiated. Rare with books on the Occult. Fun and Fascinating read for a pleasant afternoon.]]> 3.77 2017 The Occult Book: A Chronological Journey from Alchemy to Wicca (Union Square & Co. Chronologies)
author: John Michael Greer
name: Max
average rating: 3.77
book published: 2017
rating: 5
read at: 2020/06/12
date added: 2020/06/12
shelves: biography, history, non-fiction, philosophy, spirituality
review:
Fun book to read for the person interested in the Occult. John Michael Greer covers the usual suspects but there are gems in this book well worth pursuing, for example Andrew Jackson Davis, who I had never heard of, and found fascinating. And I was especially happy to see Greer, in the entry on the Rider-Waite Tarot deck, mention Pamela Colman Smith, the unsung, and often unappreciated artistic genius, behind the deck. It's a shame it isn't known as the "Rider-Waite-Colman Smith" deck...it should be.
Also refreshing is Greer's attention to detail and what can be reliably substantiated. Rare with books on the Occult. Fun and Fascinating read for a pleasant afternoon.
]]> <![CDATA[On Time: A Princely Life in Funk]]> 44286433



Brilliant composer, smooth soul singer, killer drummer, and charismatic band leader, Morris Day, has been a force in American music for the past four decades. In On Time , the renowned funkster looks back on a life of turbulence and triumph. He chronicles his creative process with an explosive prose that mirrors his intoxicating music. Morris' story is a fast-paced page-turner replete with unexpected twists and shocking surprises.

A major and fascinating theme is his lifelong friendship and years of musical partnership with Prince, from their early days on the Minneapolis scene to selling out stadiums and duking it out as rivals in Purple Rain . Eventually, Morris went on to release four albums with a new band of his very own, the legendary Time. He battled his addictions and came out victorious. But not before increasing tensions and embittered rivalry between Prince and the Revolution and Morris Day and the Time led the two performers towards separate paths. Through the years, the fierce brotherly love between Morris and Prince kept bringing them back together, over and over again -- until pride, ego, and circumstance interfered. Two months before Prince's untimely death, the two finally reconnected and started to make amends. But Morris could've never imagined it would be the last time he'd ever see his friend again.

This is Morris Day's singular story in which the magic of music is the ultimate healer. On Time is also a deep meditation on friendship, Morris' poetic method of reconciling the loss of his close friend and longtime collaborator, and a way to commemorate an incendiary life cut short. But this book is more than just a walk down memory lane -- it's a metaphorical means to bring Prince back to life. Throughout the narrative, Morris allows Prince's "voice" to protect his own legacy, to counter Morris's interpretations of events, and to essentially breathe new life into a tale as old as time -- of two brothers, two bands, and a musical culture that even today pulsates with fresh energy.]]> 206 Morris Day 0306922215 Max 4 3.89 2019 On Time: A Princely Life in Funk
author: Morris Day
name: Max
average rating: 3.89
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2020/06/12
date added: 2020/06/12
shelves: biography, black-authors, non-fiction
review:
Man, l gobbled this up in the course of a few hours. Way better then I expected. I was worried that the "interjections" would grow tiresome, but quite the opposite. This hit me hard emotionally and rejuvenated my love for Morris. Nicely done, sirs! Highly recommended and one of the better Prince-related books out there, imo. A few real bombshells in here too amongst the many jewels of nerdy info and incredible stories. Fantastic.
]]> <![CDATA[Odetta: A Life in Music and Protest]]> 52035344 The first in-depth biography of the legendary singer and "Voice of the Civil Rights Movement," who combatted racism and prejudice through her music.

Odetta channeled her anger and despair into some the most powerful folk music the world has ever heard. Through her lyrics and iconic persona, Odetta made lasting political, social, and cultural change.

A leader of the 1960s folk revival, Odetta is one of the most important singers of the last hundred years. Her music has influenced a huge number of artists over many decades, including Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin, the Kinks, Jewel, and, more recently, Rhiannon Giddens and Miley Cyrus.

But Odetta's importance extends far beyond music. Journalist Ian Zack follows Odetta from her beginnings in deeply segregated Birmingham, Alabama, to stardom in San Francisco and New York. Odetta used her fame to bring attention to the civil rights movement, working alongside Joan Baez, Harry Belafonte, and other artists. Her opera-trained voice echoed at the 1963 March on Washington and the Selma to Montgomery march, and she arranged a tour throughout the deeply segregated South. Her "Freedom Trilogy" songs became rallying cries for protesters everywhere.

Through interviews with Joan Baez, Harry Belafonte, Judy Collins, Carly Simon, and many others, Zack brings Odetta back into the spotlight, reminding the world of the folk music that powered the civil rights movement and continues to influence generations of musicians today.]]> 288 Ian Zack 0807035327 Max 0 4.03 2020 Odetta: A Life in Music and Protest
author: Ian Zack
name: Max
average rating: 4.03
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/06/10
shelves: biography, history, music, non-fiction, to-read
review:

]]> The Business of Lovers 52764760 All is fair in love and lust in New York Times bestselling author Eric Jerome Dickey's tale of two brothers, four women, and the business of desire.

Unlike their younger brother, Andrďż˝, whose star as a comedian is rising, neither Dwayne nor Brick Duquesne is having luck with his career--and they're unluckier still in love. Former child star Dwayne has just been fired from his latest acting role and barely has enough money to get by after paying child support to his spiteful former lover, while Brick struggles to return to his uninspiring white-collar job after suffering the dual blows of a health emergency and a nasty breakup with the woman he still loves.

Neither brother is looking to get entangled with a woman anytime soon, but love--and lust--has a way of twisting the best-laid plans. When Dwayne tries to reconnect with his teenage son, he finds himself fighting to separate his animosity from his attraction for his son's mother, Frenchie. And Brick's latest source of income--chauffeur and bodyguard to three smart, independent women temporarily working as escorts in order to get back on their feet--opens a world of possibility in both love and money. Penny, Christiana, and Mocha Latte know plenty of female johns who would pay top dollar for a few hours with a man like Brick... if he can let go of his past, embrace his unconventional new family, and allow strangers to become lovers.

Eric Jerome Dickey paints a powerful portrait of the family we have, the families we create, and every sexy moment in between.]]> 387 Eric Jerome Dickey 1524745200 Max 4 black-authors, fiction 3.60 2020 The Business of Lovers
author: Eric Jerome Dickey
name: Max
average rating: 3.60
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2020/06/10
date added: 2020/06/10
shelves: black-authors, fiction
review:
Just in time to escape for a minute from all the stress of what’s going on right now, Dickey’s, “Business of Lovers” delivers a well-written adventure full of life, love and lust. He never ceases to amaze me with his incredible writing skills, and ability to craft such believable, interesting characters you love and loathe.
]]> Remembrance 45046609 Remembrance by Rita Woods is a breakout historical debut with modern resonance, perfect for the many fans of The Underground Railroad and Orphan Train.

¸é±đłľ±đłľ˛ú°ů˛ą˛Ôł¦±đ…It’s a rumor, a whisper passed in the fields and veiled behind sheets of laundry. A hidden stop on the underground road to freedom, a safe haven protected by more than secrecy…if you can make it there.

Ohio, present day. An elderly woman who is more than she seems warns against rising racism as a young woman grapples with her life.

Haiti, 1791, on the brink of revolution. When the slave Abigail is forced from her children to take her mistress to safety, she discovers New Orleans has its own powers.

1857 New Orleans—a city of unrest: Following tragedy, house girl Margot is sold just before her 18th birthday and her promised freedom. Desperate, she escapes and chases a whisper.... Remembrance.]]> 416 Rita Woods 1250298458 Max 4 black-authors, fiction
It isn’t until a little over 100 pages into the story when it is revealed that Remembrance is a place – a sanctuary for blacks who have escaped slavery. It was at this point that I really became interested in the story.

I look forward to reading more by Rita Woods. If you are a fan of Octavia Butler (I certainly am), I think you will enjoy this book.]]> 3.69 2020 Remembrance
author: Rita Woods
name: Max
average rating: 3.69
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2020/06/10
date added: 2020/06/10
shelves: black-authors, fiction
review:
I struggled a bit with this story, trying to keep the three timelines straight. There were a lot of characters to keep track out. As a result, I never felt a connection to any of the characters, except perhaps a bit with Abigail because of the horrors she encountered and her role throughout the rest of the story. This book is a blend of historical fiction and the supernatural, which makes perfect sense with the Haiti and New Orleans settings. I thought the present-day portion of the book was the weakest part. I understand the purpose of that portion, but it was weakly developed, unlike the other two portions.

It isn’t until a little over 100 pages into the story when it is revealed that Remembrance is a place – a sanctuary for blacks who have escaped slavery. It was at this point that I really became interested in the story.

I look forward to reading more by Rita Woods. If you are a fan of Octavia Butler (I certainly am), I think you will enjoy this book.
]]> Elements of Fiction 44909181 128 Walter Mosley 0802147631 Max 4 3.75 2019 Elements of Fiction
author: Walter Mosley
name: Max
average rating: 3.75
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2020/06/02
date added: 2020/06/02
shelves: black-authors, non-fiction, self-help
review:
An Opening line "... the plot is the structure of revelation." This idea brought together all of the components of writing that I have been reading about and studying. The author covers all the elements - character, structure, context. voice, description, rewriting, etc. - in short easy to read monologues. I came away inspired by these elements rather that seeing them as pedantic requirements for a successful story or novel. Thank you Walter Mosely.
]]> Deacon King Kong 51045613 The funny, sharp, and surprising story of the shooting of a Brooklyn drug dealer and the people who witnessed it—from James McBride, author of the National Book Award-winning The Good Lord Bird

In September 1969, a fumbling, cranky old church deacon known in the neighborhood as Sportcoat shuffles into the courtyard of the Causeway Housing project in south Brooklyn, pulls a .38 from his pocket, and in front of everybody shoots the project's drug dealer at point-blank range.

The reasons for this desperate burst of violence and the consequences that spring from it lie at the heart of Deacon King Kong, James McBride's novel and his first since his National Book Award-winning The Good Lord Bird. In McBride brings to vivid life the people affected by the shooting: the victim, the African-American and Latinx residents who witnessed it, the white neighbors, the local NYPD cops assigned to investigate what happened, the members of the Five Ends Baptist Church where Sportcoat was deacon, the neighborhood's Italian mobsters, and Sportcoat himself.

As the story deepens, it becomes clear that the lives of the characters—caught in the tumultuous swirl of New York in the late 1960s—overlap in unexpected ways. When the truth finally emerges, McBride shows us that not all secrets can be hidden, that the best way to grow is to face change without fear, and that the seeds of love lie in compassion and hope.]]> 370 James McBride 073521672X Max 5 black-authors, fiction 4.11 2020 Deacon King Kong
author: James McBride
name: Max
average rating: 4.11
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2020/06/02
date added: 2020/06/02
shelves: black-authors, fiction
review:
I really liked this book, which was a moving and satisfying reading experience from beginning to end. With Sportcoat (aka Deacon King Kong, for his two most prominent passions), the author has created an unforgettable protagonist for the ages. In fact, McBride does a wonderful job fleshing out all of the many, many characters—Hot Sausage, Sister Gee, The Elephant, Deems, Hettie, and Officer Potts, to name but a very few—that populate this sprawling patchwork of a story. This is a novel that is frequently funny, sometimes grim, occasionally thoughtful and philosophical, but never dull
]]> THOT 32162674 254 Alah Adams 1936649063 Max 3 3.37 THOT
author: Alah Adams
name: Max
average rating: 3.37
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2020/05/28
date added: 2020/05/28
shelves: black-authors, erotica, fiction
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Black Lies Matter: Why Lies Matter to the Race Grievance Industry]]> 29441908 183 Taleeb Starkes Max 5 black-authors, non-fiction 4.11 2016 Black Lies Matter: Why Lies Matter to the Race Grievance Industry
author: Taleeb Starkes
name: Max
average rating: 4.11
book published: 2016
rating: 5
read at: 2020/05/27
date added: 2020/05/27
shelves: black-authors, non-fiction
review:
This book explains the nature of "Black Lives Matter" and their agenda. It gives insight into the "Race Grievance Industry" and the damage it is causing. Taleeb Starkes does an excellent job painting a picture of what and who is killing the progress America has made in race relations up to this point in history. A must read! This book should be required reading.
]]> The War of Art 1319 168 Steven Pressfield 0446691437 Max 5
"Do it or don't do it.

It may help to think of it this way. If you were meant to cure cancer or write a symphony or crack cold fusion and you don't do it, you not only hurt yourself, even destroy yourself,. You hurt your children. You hurt me. You hurt the planet.

You shame the angels who watch over you and you spite the Almighty, who created you and only you with your unique gifts, for the sole purpose of nudging the human race one millimeter farther along its path back to God.

Creative work is not a selfish act or a bid for attention on the part of the actor. It's a gift to the world and every being in it. Don't cheat us of your contribution. Give us what you've got.]]> 3.95 2002 The War of Art
author: Steven Pressfield
name: Max
average rating: 3.95
book published: 2002
rating: 5
read at: 2020/05/27
date added: 2020/05/27
shelves: biography, non-fiction, self-help
review:
My favorite qoute from the book.

"Do it or don't do it.

It may help to think of it this way. If you were meant to cure cancer or write a symphony or crack cold fusion and you don't do it, you not only hurt yourself, even destroy yourself,. You hurt your children. You hurt me. You hurt the planet.

You shame the angels who watch over you and you spite the Almighty, who created you and only you with your unique gifts, for the sole purpose of nudging the human race one millimeter farther along its path back to God.

Creative work is not a selfish act or a bid for attention on the part of the actor. It's a gift to the world and every being in it. Don't cheat us of your contribution. Give us what you've got.
]]> The Vietnam War 33512518 Geoffrey C. Ward 0307970841 Max 5 4.50 2017 The Vietnam War
author: Geoffrey C. Ward
name: Max
average rating: 4.50
book published: 2017
rating: 5
read at: 2020/05/27
date added: 2020/05/27
shelves: biography, history, non-fiction
review:
If you are a fan of Ken Burns’ style of history, you will love this book. Burns and Geoffrey C. Ward take us on a long and poignant journey through the Vietnam war, starting with events in the early 20th century and ending with modern, “capitalist” Vietnam. Along the way are any number of tragic tales, acts of bravery, desperation and savagery all in the name of a tiny country of little political or military significance. And yet it dominated the politics of at least three of the largest and most powerful countries on the planet. Ward and Burns do a masterful job at probing many of the small stories that made up the big story.
]]> Ms. Etta's Fast House 181569 Essence® bestselling author Victor McGlothin delivers a stirring novel about a player who's down on his luck only to receive help from the most unlikely source- the very women whose hearts he broke...
The year is 1947, and Ms. Etta's Fast House is the hottest nightclub this side of Chicago. The city's fastest-talking street hustlers rub elbows here with the rich and famous, and anyone with enough cash in their wallet can drink like a king and dance the night away. Life is good- until a stranger named Baltimore Floyd strolls into town...
Handsome and charming, Baltimore is a hustler with a penchant for stirring up trouble. Everyone adores him, including Etta Adams, the matron of Ms. Etta's Fast House. But before he can imagine settling down with one woman, Baltimore is up for a little action, which is how he hooks up with a corrupt cop's wife.
In the blink of an eye, Baltimore finds himself on trial for a crime he didn't commit. Now, to keep him from hanging, the patrons of Ms. Etta's Fast House will need to heal their heartache and come together before the world beyond the Ville's borders tears them apart...]]> 336 Victor McGlothin 0758213816 Max 3 black-authors, fiction 3.89 2007 Ms. Etta's Fast House
author: Victor McGlothin
name: Max
average rating: 3.89
book published: 2007
rating: 3
read at: 2020/05/13
date added: 2020/05/13
shelves: black-authors, fiction
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Conspiracy Against the Human Race]]> 8524528
"There is a signature motif discernible in both works of philosophical pessimism and supernatural horror. It may be stated Behind the scenes of life lurks something pernicious that makes a nightmare of our world."**

His fiction is known to be some of the most terrifying in the genre of supernatural horror, but Thomas Ligotti's first nonfiction book may be even scarier. Drawing on philosophy, literature, neuroscience, and other fields of study, Ligotti takes the penetrating lens of his imagination and turns it on his audience, causing them to grapple with the brutal reality that they are living a meaningless nightmare, and anyone who feels otherwise is simply acting out an optimistic fallacy. At once a guidebook to pessimistic thought and a relentless critique of humanity's employment of self-deception to cope with the pervasive suffering of their existence, The Conspiracy against the Human Race may just convince readers that there is more than a measure of truth in the despairing yet unexpectedly liberating negativity that is widely considered a hallmark of Ligotti's work.]]> 240 Thomas Ligotti 098242969X Max 5
"For the rest of the earth’s organisms, existence is relatively uncomplicated. Their lives are about three things: survival, reproduction, death—and nothing else. But we know too much to content ourselves with surviving, reproducing, dying—and nothing else. We know we are alive and know we will die. We also know we will suffer during our lives before suffering—slowly or quickly—as we draw near to death. This is the knowledge we “enjoy” as the most intelligent organisms to gush from the womb of nature. And being so, we feel shortchanged if there is nothing else for us than to survive, reproduce, and die. We want there to be more to it than that, or to think there is. This is the tragedy: Consciousness has forced us into the paradoxical position of striving to be unself-conscious of what we are—hunks of spoiling flesh on disintegrating bones."]]> 4.04 2011 The Conspiracy Against the Human Race
author: Thomas Ligotti
name: Max
average rating: 4.04
book published: 2011
rating: 5
read at: 2020/05/12
date added: 2020/05/12
shelves: non-fiction, philosophy, psychology
review:
I'm going to put this book on my self-help shelf. in ask anybody that's reading this, is to be careful reading this book, more likely it might not be for you. In with that I'll leave a qoute from the book.

"For the rest of the earth’s organisms, existence is relatively uncomplicated. Their lives are about three things: survival, reproduction, death—and nothing else. But we know too much to content ourselves with surviving, reproducing, dying—and nothing else. We know we are alive and know we will die. We also know we will suffer during our lives before suffering—slowly or quickly—as we draw near to death. This is the knowledge we “enjoy” as the most intelligent organisms to gush from the womb of nature. And being so, we feel shortchanged if there is nothing else for us than to survive, reproduce, and die. We want there to be more to it than that, or to think there is. This is the tragedy: Consciousness has forced us into the paradoxical position of striving to be unself-conscious of what we are—hunks of spoiling flesh on disintegrating bones."
]]> <![CDATA[Black President: The World Will Never Be the Same]]> 31415750 272 Brenda Hampton 1622864840 Max 3 black-authors, fiction 4.02 Black President: The World Will Never Be the Same
author: Brenda Hampton
name: Max
average rating: 4.02
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2020/05/12
date added: 2020/05/12
shelves: black-authors, fiction
review:
Well this is far from the Obama's. The president name Stephen C. Jefferson remind me of a black version of trump. It was entertaining but not enough interest was spark to pursue this series on to the next.
]]> Exhalation 41160292
In "The Merchant and the Alchemist's Gate," a portal through time forces a fabric seller in ancient Baghdad to grapple with past mistakes and second chances. In "Exhalation," an alien scientist makes a shocking discovery with ramifications that are literally universal. In "Anxiety Is the Dizziness of Freedom," the ability to glimpse into alternate universes necessitates a radically new examination of the concepts of choice and free will.

Including stories being published for the first time as well as some of his rare and classic uncollected work, Exhalation is Ted Chiang at his best: profound, sympathetic—revelatory.]]> 368 Ted Chiang Max 4 fiction, science-fiction 4.27 2019 Exhalation
author: Ted Chiang
name: Max
average rating: 4.27
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2020/05/12
date added: 2020/05/12
shelves: fiction, science-fiction
review:
Great wonderful short stories by Ted Chiang I recommend you won't be disappointed.
]]> <![CDATA[Things Fall Apart (The African Trilogy, #1)]]> 37781 Things Fall Apart is written with remarkable economy and subtle irony. Uniquely and richly African, at the same time it reveals Achebe's keen awareness of the human qualities common to men of all times and places.]]> 215 Chinua Achebe Max 4 black-authors, fiction Great read, sad ending. 3.73 1958 Things Fall Apart (The African Trilogy, #1)
author: Chinua Achebe
name: Max
average rating: 3.73
book published: 1958
rating: 4
read at: 2020/05/06
date added: 2020/05/06
shelves: black-authors, fiction
review:
Great read, sad ending.
]]> <![CDATA[Dune Messiah (Dune Chronicles, #2)]]> 106
Dune Messiah continues the story of Paul Atreides, better known—and feared—as the man christened Muad’Dib. As Emperor of the known universe, he possesses more power than a single man was ever meant to wield. Worshipped as a religious icon by the fanatical Fremen, Paul faces the enmity of the political houses he displaced when he assumed the throne—and a conspiracy conducted within his own sphere of influence.

And even as House Atreides begins to crumble around him from the machinations of his enemies, the true threat to Paul comes to his lover, Chani, and the unborn heir to his family’s dynasty...]]> 331 Frank Herbert 0441172695 Max 4 fiction, science-fiction 3.88 1969 Dune Messiah (Dune Chronicles, #2)
author: Frank Herbert
name: Max
average rating: 3.88
book published: 1969
rating: 4
read at: 2020/05/02
date added: 2020/05/02
shelves: fiction, science-fiction
review:
Mostly the problem withĚýDune MessiahĚýis that we have a much weaker connection to the characters (the only really interesting people here are Paul's sister, the now-teenage Alia, and the Hayt/Duncan Idaho clone, who wrestles with his identity and memories), and far less of a stake in the outcome, which seems inevitable anyway. It isn't until we near the climax that Herbert reawakens some of his storytelling mojo and brings the book to something of an emotionally stirring conclusion, with a haunting final image of Paul walking off alone into the deep desert. On that image, Herbert might have been well advised to bring this saga to a close. But you can't keep a good god down.
]]> Unexpected Stories 22023917 An NPR Books Great Read: Two never-before-published stories from the archives of one of science fiction’s all-time masters.

The novella “A Necessary Being” showcases Octavia E. Butler’s ability to create alien yet fully believable “others.” Tahneh’s father was a Hao, one of a dwindling race whose leadership abilities render them so valuable that their members are captured and forced to govern. When her father dies, Tahneh steps into his place, both chief and prisoner, and for twenty years has ruled without ever meeting another of her kind. She bears her loneliness privately until the day that a Hao youth is spotted wandering into her territory. As her warriors sharpen their weapons, Tahneh must choose between imprisoning the newcomer—and living the rest of her life alone.

The second story in this volume, “Childfinder,” was commissioned by Harlan Ellison for his legendary (and never-published) anthology The Last Dangerous Visions™. A disaffected telepath connects with a young girl in a desperate attempt to help her harness her growing powers. But in the richly evocative fiction of Octavia E. Butler, mentorship is a rocky path, and every lesson comes at a price.

The award-winning author of science fiction classics Parable of the Sower and Kindred bestows these compelling, long lost gems “like the miraculous discovery that the beloved book you’ve read a dozen times has an extra chapter” (Los Angeles Review of Books).
Harlan Ellison and Dangerous Visions are registered trademarks of the Kilimanjaro Corporation.ĚýAll rights reserved.]]> 81 Octavia E. Butler Max 4
One of favorite out of this book was Childfinder is about a black woman named Barbara who identifies pre-telepath children who have the potential to be fully active telepaths. The short story strongly corresponds toĚýWild SeedĚý˛ą˛Ô»ĺĚýMind of My Mind, the first two books of the The Patternist Series.

Barabara is a childfinder, “somebody who could recognize normal-appearing kids who had psi potential before they got too old and the potential in them died from lack of use.” She has left “the organization”—a group of white people who collect and group active telepaths—and formed her own “black-only group” of pre-telelpaths.]]> 4.09 2014 Unexpected Stories
author: Octavia E. Butler
name: Max
average rating: 4.09
book published: 2014
rating: 4
read at: 2020/05/02
date added: 2020/05/02
shelves: black-authors, science-fiction
review:
The first story, "A Necessary Being," is fantasy set in a world where leadership is biologically determined and leaders are utterly necessary to the proper functioning of society, even when they are unwilling and forced into it. Characters struggle with the tension between biological imperative and personal choice and freedom, a theme Butler would return to many times in later works.

One of favorite out of this book was Childfinder is about a black woman named Barbara who identifies pre-telepath children who have the potential to be fully active telepaths. The short story strongly corresponds toĚýWild SeedĚý˛ą˛Ô»ĺĚýMind of My Mind, the first two books of the The Patternist Series.

Barabara is a childfinder, “somebody who could recognize normal-appearing kids who had psi potential before they got too old and the potential in them died from lack of use.” She has left “the organization”—a group of white people who collect and group active telepaths—and formed her own “black-only group” of pre-telelpaths.
]]> Airframe 7667
'Socal Approach, this is TransPacific 545. We have an emergency.' The pilot requests priority clearance to land - then comes the bombshell - he needs forty ambulances on the runway.

But nothing prepares the rescue workers for the carnage they witness when they enter the plane.

Ninety-four passengers are injured. Three dead. The interior cabin virtually destroyed.

What happened on board Flight TPA 545?]]> 431 Michael Crichton 0099556316 Max 2 science-fiction 3.73 1996 Airframe
author: Michael Crichton
name: Max
average rating: 3.73
book published: 1996
rating: 2
read at: 2020/05/01
date added: 2020/05/01
shelves: science-fiction
review:
Boring couldn't wait to finish.
]]> Pimp: The Story of My Life 108713 311 Iceberg Slim 0862415934 Max 4 4.00 1967 Pimp: The Story of My Life
author: Iceberg Slim
name: Max
average rating: 4.00
book published: 1967
rating: 4
read at: 2020/04/28
date added: 2020/04/28
shelves: biography, black-authors, fiction
review:
Iceberg slim had one crazy life.
]]> <![CDATA[Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking]]> 8520610 The book that started the Quiet Revolution

At least one-third of the people we know are introverts. They are the ones who prefer listening to speaking; who innovate and create but dislike self-promotion; who favor working on their own over working in teams. It is to introverts—Rosa Parks, Chopin, Dr. Seuss, Steve Wozniak—that we owe many of the great contributions to society.Ěý

In Quiet, Susan Cain argues that we dramatically undervalue introverts and shows how much we lose in doing so. She charts the rise of the Extrovert Ideal throughout the twentieth century and explores how deeply it has come to permeate our culture. She also introduces us to successful introverts—from a witty, high-octane public speaker who recharges in solitude after his talks, to a record-breaking salesman who quietly taps into the power of questions. Passionately argued, superbly researched, and filled with indelible stories of real people, Quiet has the power to permanently change how we see introverts and, equally important, how they see themselves.

Now with Extra Libris material, including a reader’s guide and bonus content.]]> 333 Susan Cain 0307352145 Max 5 I'm a true introvert lol. 4.07 2012 Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking
author: Susan Cain
name: Max
average rating: 4.07
book published: 2012
rating: 5
read at: 2020/04/28
date added: 2020/04/28
shelves: non-fiction, psychology, science
review:
I'm a true introvert lol.
]]> <![CDATA[Hitting a Straight Lick with a Crooked Stick: Stories from the Harlem Renaissance]]> 44890071


In 1925, Barnard student Zora Neale Hurston—the sole black student at the college—was living in New York, “desperately striving for a toe-hold on the world.” During this period, she began writing short works that captured the zeitgeist of African American life and transformed her into one of the central figures of the Harlem Renaissance. Nearly a century later, this singular talent is recognized as one of the most influential and revered American artists of the modern period.

Hitting a Straight Lick with a Crooked Stick is an outstanding collection of stories about love and migration, gender and class, racism and sexism that proudly reflect African American folk culture. Brought together for the first time in one volume, they include eight of Hurston’s “lost” Harlem stories, which were found in forgotten periodicals and archives. These stories challenge conceptions of Hurston as an author of rural fiction and include gems that flash with her biting, satiric humor, as well as more serious tales reflective of the cultural currents of Hurston’s world. All are timeless classics that enrich our understanding and appreciation of this exceptional writer’s voice and her contributions to America’s literary traditions.]]> 304 Zora Neale Hurston 0062915797 Max 2 black-authors, fiction 3.97 2020 Hitting a Straight Lick with a Crooked Stick: Stories from the Harlem Renaissance
author: Zora Neale Hurston
name: Max
average rating: 3.97
book published: 2020
rating: 2
read at: 2020/04/24
date added: 2020/04/24
shelves: black-authors, fiction
review:
Only a few short stories was good but the majority was not that appealing to me.
]]> <![CDATA[The Birth and Death of Meaning: An Interdisciplinary Perspective on the Problem of Man]]> 162759 228 Ernest Becker 0029021901 Max 5 4.34 1962 The Birth and Death of Meaning: An Interdisciplinary Perspective on the Problem of Man
author: Ernest Becker
name: Max
average rating: 4.34
book published: 1962
rating: 5
read at: 2020/04/21
date added: 2020/04/21
shelves: non-fiction, psychology, science, self-help
review:
After finishing this book I can't help but wonder if everybody's mentally sick. But anyways this is a great read it kind of reminds of the happiness hypothesis by haidts.
]]> The Black God's Drums 38118138 Rising SFF star P. Djèlí Clark brings an alternate New Orleans of orisha, airships, and adventure to life in his immersive debut novella The Black God's Drums

In an alternate New Orleans caught in the tangle of the American Civil War, the wall-scaling girl named Creeper yearns to escape the streets for the air – in particular, by earning a spot on-board the airship Midnight Robber. Creeper plans to earn Captain Ann-Marie’s trust with information she discovers about a Haitian scientist and a mysterious weapon he calls The Black God’s Drums.

But Creeper also has a secret Oya, the African orisha of the wind and storms, speaks inside her head, and may have her own ulterior motivations.

Soon, Creeper, Oya, and the crew of the Midnight Robber are pulled into a perilous mission aimed to stop the Black God’s Drums from being unleashed and wiping out the entirety of New Orleans.

“Asinewy mosaic of Haitian sky pirates, wily street urchins, and orisha magic.Beguiling and bombastic!” —Scott Westerfeld, New York Times bestselling author

At the Publisher's request, this title is being sold without Digital Rights Management Software (DRM) applied.]]> 112 P. Djèlí Clark 1250294703 Max 3 4.02 2018 The Black God's Drums
author: P. Djèlí Clark
name: Max
average rating: 4.02
book published: 2018
rating: 3
read at: 2020/04/18
date added: 2020/04/18
shelves: black-authors, science-fiction
review:
It would've been as a comic book I'm a sucker for African pantheon in mythology.
]]> <![CDATA[The Girl with the Louding Voice]]> 50214741 All you have are your words.

Adunni is a fourteen-year-old Nigerian girl who knows what she wants: an education.

As the only daughter of a broke father, she is a valuable commodity. Removed from school and sold as a third wife to an old man, Adunni's life amounts to this: four goats, two bags of rice, some chickens and a new TV. When unspeakable tragedy swiftly strikes in her new home, she is secretly sold as a domestic servant to a household in the wealthy enclaves of Lagos, where no one will talk about the strange disappearance of her predecessor, Rebecca. No one but Adunni...

As a yielding daughter, a subservient wife, and a powerless servant, fourteen-year-old Adunni is repeatedly told that she is nothing. But Adunni won't be silenced. She is determined to find her voice - in a whisper, in song, in broken English - until she can speak for herself, for the girls like Rebecca who came before, and for all the girls who will follow.

]]> 371 Abi Daré 1524746029 Max 4 4.40 2020 The Girl with the Louding Voice
author: Abi Daré
name: Max
average rating: 4.40
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2020/04/18
date added: 2020/04/18
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Catch a Fire: The Life of Bob Marley]]> 44968
Bob Marley left an indelible mark on modern music, both as a reggae pioneer and as an enduring cultural icon. Catch a Fire , now a classic of rock biography, delves into the life of the leader of a musical, spiritual, and political explosion that continues today.

Under the supervision of the author's widow and with the collaboration of a Marley expert, this fourth edition contains a wealth of new material on the Jamaican singer, songwriter and musician , including many revisions made by the author before his untimely death. An appendix to the new edition chronicles Marley's legacy in recent years, as well as the ongoing controversy over the possibility that Marley's remains might be exhumed from Nine Mile, Jamaica, and reburied in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where hundreds of Rastafarians live. The new edition also contains an expanded discography and is factually updated throughout.

"Probably the finest biography ever written about a popular musician." ― San Francisco Chronicle

"As close as rock journalism comes to transcendent literature."
―P±ô˛ą˛â˛ú´Ç˛â±Ő±Ő> 576 Timothy White 0805080864 Max 5 biography, non-fiction Loved it. 4.10 1983 Catch a Fire: The Life of Bob Marley
author: Timothy White
name: Max
average rating: 4.10
book published: 1983
rating: 5
read at: 2020/04/18
date added: 2020/04/18
shelves: biography, non-fiction
review:
Loved it.
]]>