In our modern lives we spend most of our time in a rush, so much so that even our thought processes are on high speed. We move so fast we often lose sight of who we fundamentally are, what we truly care about and what is the actual source of our discomforts. To achieve an inner peace and tune in to the reality around us we need to slow down and "Unplug". Sharon Salzberg has created a kit to help one do just that. Unplug (ISBN 978-1-59179-638-1) includes two CD's, a set of flashcards and a guidebook. The CD's are meditations to teach us the skills we need to use time wisely and dispel distractions. The cards are to inspire and remind us of the truths we know on a subconscious level but have forgotten. The book breaks down the journey into eight segments and gives us context and guidance for this journey.
The segments contain the following topics:
1. Calming the Mind- When you develop a degree of tranquility, the quietness enables you to have a better and clearer connection with everything around you.
2. Trusting Yourself- We need to learn to trust our own experience and ask ourselves, "What do I truly need to be happy."
3. Facing Challenges- We need to open our hearts and have courage to openly acknowledge what we can't control.
4. Letting Go- This is a refuge we can find through meditation. "We learn to see with less illusion, we begin to accept that no matter how we feel about it, life will never become predictable and orderly and fixed."
5. Being Present- By simply being we are giving birth to our wholeness and by being completely present for another, we are showing a true act of love.
6. Opening the Heart- What we do right now has far reaching effects over time and space. When we look at others, we also see something about ourselves.
7. Knowing Yourself- We must be open to truly knowing and loving ourselves.
8. Being with the World- We must realize that every aspect of our lives is connected to every other aspect of our lives.
I originally purchased this as a relaxation aid. While following the meditations, you do feel a sense of calm and peace, but this kit really encourages you to look within yourself. By teaching you to find an inner peace, it enables you to find that serenity in your everyday life. A very useful tool in our fast paced world. I give this four out of five plugs.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Friday, August 28, 2009
Book Review - Overcoming Obstacles With Spunk! by L. Diane Wolfe
Overcoming Obstacles With Spunk! The keys to Leadership & Goal Setting is so much more than it's title states. While it is an ideal resource for those looking to take on the role of a leader in life, it is a great motivational tool for the average person looking to live a better life.
Having attended several of L. Diane Wolfe's seminars, I have a slight advantage over the average reader of this book in that I can hear the vibrancy behind the text and picture her speaking to an enraptured room. That being said, the tone of the book reflects her upbeat attitude even for those who have not had the pleasure of hearing her speak. Almost a year ago, I attended Diane's How to Publish Your Book Now Seminar. It was there that I learned she is not only a gifted and motivating speaker, but she gives of herself so freely and shares her abundance of knowledge in a way that you can't help but want to come back for more. Her book is the same way and one of the things I loved most about it is, that having met her in person, I know that she lives by the words in this book. I read many motivational and self-help books, some to help me be a better person and some just out of curiosity. Many come off as "yeah, yeah, I read this all before" or seem all about the author's self-promoting. Some come off as preachy, some as unrealistic, some as just plain boring. As an avid reader, I try to read everything I can get my hands on, but I have to say my favorite books are fiction and filled with action and suspense. So often times I have to make myself get through the non-fiction books because I feel learning and expanding my horizons is important. I will admit, I wanted to read Diane's book out of curiosity, because I had enjoyed her publishing seminars and I wanted to see what her motivational book would be like. Having read books like The Secret, The Laws of Attraction, The Management Skills Book, etc., I was impressed with her approach. While the other books were good, they didn't really accomplish what they set out to for me. They all seem to impart great words of wisdom, but didn't really make a difference in my life, because after a week or two, I would just revert back to my normal ways. In Overcoming Obstacles with Spunk, Diane addresses the fact that while certain changes are ideal, we are human, life will throw us curve balls every chance it can and there will be times when we slip back into old habits, whether we want to or not. Another great aspect of this book, not only does Diane tell you upfront what the focus and the five keys to your success are, but she brings you insight from other authors and sources as well. From the beginning you realize this book is not about her, it's all about you, the reader, the student. She thoroughly covers each of the five keys: developing a positive attitude, learning people skills, raising self-esteem, overcoming fear, and setting goals. She spaces them out and gives practical guidance on how to achieve and maintain these goals interspersed with colorful analogies. I love that at the end of each chapter she has "In a nutshell....", where with a few sparsely worded bullet points she summaries the points of that chapter. Although, I enjoyed the stories and analogies in the chapters enough to want to re-read them, it is nice to be able to flip to the end when I need a refresher on certain points. I was even motivated enough to go out and get a wire bound set of index cards to jot them down on, so that I can have them handy when I need them. (In fact, I would buy a set of motivational cards if she offered them, as I'm sure many others would also. If you read this Diane, Hint Hint.)
In a nutshell... this book does everything Diane has set out to accomplish with it. Although Diane says she is originally form Oregon, when you pick up this book it's like being ushered into a southern parlor and offered a cold glass of tea on a hot summer day. I think there must be some southern genes in her ancestry. Overcoming Obstacles with Spunk! is a must read and great tool for anyone wanting to enhance their life. As I commented on another post and to phrase it for the younger generations, it's Spunkylicious!!!
Having attended several of L. Diane Wolfe's seminars, I have a slight advantage over the average reader of this book in that I can hear the vibrancy behind the text and picture her speaking to an enraptured room. That being said, the tone of the book reflects her upbeat attitude even for those who have not had the pleasure of hearing her speak. Almost a year ago, I attended Diane's How to Publish Your Book Now Seminar. It was there that I learned she is not only a gifted and motivating speaker, but she gives of herself so freely and shares her abundance of knowledge in a way that you can't help but want to come back for more. Her book is the same way and one of the things I loved most about it is, that having met her in person, I know that she lives by the words in this book. I read many motivational and self-help books, some to help me be a better person and some just out of curiosity. Many come off as "yeah, yeah, I read this all before" or seem all about the author's self-promoting. Some come off as preachy, some as unrealistic, some as just plain boring. As an avid reader, I try to read everything I can get my hands on, but I have to say my favorite books are fiction and filled with action and suspense. So often times I have to make myself get through the non-fiction books because I feel learning and expanding my horizons is important. I will admit, I wanted to read Diane's book out of curiosity, because I had enjoyed her publishing seminars and I wanted to see what her motivational book would be like. Having read books like The Secret, The Laws of Attraction, The Management Skills Book, etc., I was impressed with her approach. While the other books were good, they didn't really accomplish what they set out to for me. They all seem to impart great words of wisdom, but didn't really make a difference in my life, because after a week or two, I would just revert back to my normal ways. In Overcoming Obstacles with Spunk, Diane addresses the fact that while certain changes are ideal, we are human, life will throw us curve balls every chance it can and there will be times when we slip back into old habits, whether we want to or not. Another great aspect of this book, not only does Diane tell you upfront what the focus and the five keys to your success are, but she brings you insight from other authors and sources as well. From the beginning you realize this book is not about her, it's all about you, the reader, the student. She thoroughly covers each of the five keys: developing a positive attitude, learning people skills, raising self-esteem, overcoming fear, and setting goals. She spaces them out and gives practical guidance on how to achieve and maintain these goals interspersed with colorful analogies. I love that at the end of each chapter she has "In a nutshell....", where with a few sparsely worded bullet points she summaries the points of that chapter. Although, I enjoyed the stories and analogies in the chapters enough to want to re-read them, it is nice to be able to flip to the end when I need a refresher on certain points. I was even motivated enough to go out and get a wire bound set of index cards to jot them down on, so that I can have them handy when I need them. (In fact, I would buy a set of motivational cards if she offered them, as I'm sure many others would also. If you read this Diane, Hint Hint.)
In a nutshell... this book does everything Diane has set out to accomplish with it. Although Diane says she is originally form Oregon, when you pick up this book it's like being ushered into a southern parlor and offered a cold glass of tea on a hot summer day. I think there must be some southern genes in her ancestry. Overcoming Obstacles with Spunk! is a must read and great tool for anyone wanting to enhance their life. As I commented on another post and to phrase it for the younger generations, it's Spunkylicious!!!
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Site - Pazsaz Entertainment Network
The Pazsaz Entertainment Network is a website devoted to TV shows old and new. Anything you could possibly want to know about shows past, present and near future you can probably find on this site. They have the new fall schedule with links to show descriptions. For older series you can look up episode descriptions and the dates they originally aired. There are also links to other sites for more information on particular shows and topics. You can look up categories of shows, Shows by certain dates and more. Finally, they also offer some great contest and a discussion board, which I haven't checked out yet. Overall it is a very useful site if you are looking for good background material on a particular series.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Site- 2wire.com
Have you ever been on the browsing the internet, doing research or sending emails and wondered why it is taking longer than usual? Well there is a nifty little site called 2wire.com where you can check your internet speed. Simply go to the site and then click on the speed meter button at the top. In a few seconds you'll have the speed of your downloads with a few other speeds for comparison, so you'll know if there is a possible problem with your internet. The site has other functions too, but to be honest I only use it for the speed meter. Very handy site to remember!
Friday, August 21, 2009
Book Review - Dust to Dust The Prophecy:Book 1 by Heather Graham
"He did not fear the dead. He pitied them and, in a melancholy way, in these dark regions of his mind, he envied them. He knew there was more to what the subconscious mind saw than the world accepted. And it wasn't the dead who frightened him but the living. The living had free will, and free will allowed for choices, for good and evil. The good offered no harm to others, indeed, would reach out to help another. The evil flourished on the pain of others, they were selfish, seeking their own pleasure above all else. Evil could be minor, manifested in such things as shoplifting and petty theft. That demonstrated the evil of selfishness, but no one was physically harmed. True evil found expression in so many ways in so many societies. He was certain that throughout history, certain inquisitors, witch-finder generals and their ilk, sanctioned by cross and king, had been genuinely evil. They had enjoyed their tasks." (Page 44)
Welcome to Scott Bryant's deep thoughts. Scott was an ordinary guy, until one night, while trying to be a good Samaritan, his life is changed forever. He becomes one of the chosen warriors who must fight to save mankind during the apocalypse. Scott will be joined in the fight by a mysterious group of individuals, the Alliance. To defeat the evil that wants to hasten the end of the world, they must learn to trust one another while each faces their own fears and self doubts.
One of the things I loved most about Heather Graham's Dust to Dust, is that she weaves stories making headlines with fictional, often fantastical elements. She has a gift for creating characters and events that read like the real life story of someone you could know. Yet, she interjects surprising elements to remind you, "it's okay, this is only fiction."
It is not often that a paranormal fantasy makes you stop and question your values, your fears, and what you would do, if thrust into a similar situation. we often turn to non-fiction books when we want to delve into our own psyche. The beauty of this book is that it is not only entertaining and well paced but haunting. Graham keeps you focused on the story until the last line, but when you close the book and set it down, you begin to think about your own life and the times we live in.
Dust to Dust is the first of four books in the Prophecy series. Each book will focus on one of the four elements: earth, air, fire, water. Heather Graham is a master storyteller. For those who pick up this book looking for one of her traditional romances, they will be disappointed. This book is an action packed thriller. My only complaint is having to wait until July 2010 for book two.
I give this five out of five Oracles.
Welcome to Scott Bryant's deep thoughts. Scott was an ordinary guy, until one night, while trying to be a good Samaritan, his life is changed forever. He becomes one of the chosen warriors who must fight to save mankind during the apocalypse. Scott will be joined in the fight by a mysterious group of individuals, the Alliance. To defeat the evil that wants to hasten the end of the world, they must learn to trust one another while each faces their own fears and self doubts.
One of the things I loved most about Heather Graham's Dust to Dust, is that she weaves stories making headlines with fictional, often fantastical elements. She has a gift for creating characters and events that read like the real life story of someone you could know. Yet, she interjects surprising elements to remind you, "it's okay, this is only fiction."
It is not often that a paranormal fantasy makes you stop and question your values, your fears, and what you would do, if thrust into a similar situation. we often turn to non-fiction books when we want to delve into our own psyche. The beauty of this book is that it is not only entertaining and well paced but haunting. Graham keeps you focused on the story until the last line, but when you close the book and set it down, you begin to think about your own life and the times we live in.
Dust to Dust is the first of four books in the Prophecy series. Each book will focus on one of the four elements: earth, air, fire, water. Heather Graham is a master storyteller. For those who pick up this book looking for one of her traditional romances, they will be disappointed. This book is an action packed thriller. My only complaint is having to wait until July 2010 for book two.
I give this five out of five Oracles.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Book Review - The Romanov Prophecy by Steve Berry
I have always been fascinated by the rich Russian history and the Romanovs, so I was delighted that one of my favorite authors wrote a book them. I love Steve Berry books because of all the research he puts into his stories. (Research he shares with you on his website.) He entwines the real life history with modern day fictional characters to produce a novel that makes the reader hold on to their seats for an unimaginable ride.
There has always been controversy over what really happened on the night of July 16, 1918 and what happened to the two children, whose bodies were never found. It has long been debated whether the missing bodies belonged to Maria and Alexei or Anastasia and Alexei. Over the years, false "Anastasia's" have come forward only to be proved impostors. There have been numerous books and movies made based on the theories of what happened that fateful night and if there were survivors what became of them. For many Russians there will always be the desire to see a tsar and more specifically a Romanov returned to the throne. There is actually an organization devoted to just such a cause, The All-Russian Monarchist Assembly. In The Romanov Prophecy, Steve Berry delves into that what if.
The Romanov Prophecy starts off with an intriguing prologue that invites you into an intimate view of the lives and minds of the Romanovs leading up to their execution. Berry then throws the reader head first into the life of Miles Lord, an African American lawyer from Atlanta, GA., whose love of the Russian culture could lead to his downfall or triumph. Berry choice in Mile's race shows us a side a side of Russia that few who have not visited or lived there would have considered. In present day Moscow, Communism has fallen, attempts at a stable government have failed and the people have voted to bring back the tsars. Miles and his boss, Taylor Hayes, are in Moscow to perform a background check on the distant relatives of Nicholas II before the new tsar will be crowned. Corrupt Western businessmen have a candidate they want in power, but is there a closer living relative to Nicholas II? Miles will be chased across multiple countries to survive and find the rightful heir. Are he and Russian circus performer, Akilina Petrov part of a prophecy written by Rasputin to Nicholas' wife, Alexandra? Did the real heir survive the bloody massacre and can they find the heir or the descendant in time to prevent the wrong man from being crown?
Berry keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout by giving the reader insight into characters in Mile's life, while keeping him in the dark until the end. He weaves a masterful suspense that will have you screaming warnings to Miles. For anyone who loves a good mystery, a fast paced thriller or political intrigue, this book is a must read. I give it five out of five Faberge Eggs!
There has always been controversy over what really happened on the night of July 16, 1918 and what happened to the two children, whose bodies were never found. It has long been debated whether the missing bodies belonged to Maria and Alexei or Anastasia and Alexei. Over the years, false "Anastasia's" have come forward only to be proved impostors. There have been numerous books and movies made based on the theories of what happened that fateful night and if there were survivors what became of them. For many Russians there will always be the desire to see a tsar and more specifically a Romanov returned to the throne. There is actually an organization devoted to just such a cause, The All-Russian Monarchist Assembly. In The Romanov Prophecy, Steve Berry delves into that what if.
The Romanov Prophecy starts off with an intriguing prologue that invites you into an intimate view of the lives and minds of the Romanovs leading up to their execution. Berry then throws the reader head first into the life of Miles Lord, an African American lawyer from Atlanta, GA., whose love of the Russian culture could lead to his downfall or triumph. Berry choice in Mile's race shows us a side a side of Russia that few who have not visited or lived there would have considered. In present day Moscow, Communism has fallen, attempts at a stable government have failed and the people have voted to bring back the tsars. Miles and his boss, Taylor Hayes, are in Moscow to perform a background check on the distant relatives of Nicholas II before the new tsar will be crowned. Corrupt Western businessmen have a candidate they want in power, but is there a closer living relative to Nicholas II? Miles will be chased across multiple countries to survive and find the rightful heir. Are he and Russian circus performer, Akilina Petrov part of a prophecy written by Rasputin to Nicholas' wife, Alexandra? Did the real heir survive the bloody massacre and can they find the heir or the descendant in time to prevent the wrong man from being crown?
Berry keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout by giving the reader insight into characters in Mile's life, while keeping him in the dark until the end. He weaves a masterful suspense that will have you screaming warnings to Miles. For anyone who loves a good mystery, a fast paced thriller or political intrigue, this book is a must read. I give it five out of five Faberge Eggs!
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Superior Scribbler Award
My friend and mentor, L. Diane Wolfe at Writing, Publishing & Promoting Tips from SpunkOnAStick! awarded me with the Superior Scribbler Award! Thanks Diane, You're the best!!
Rules for Passing on the Superior Scribbler Award
The blog award rules are as follows (which according to rule #5 I am required to post here):
1. Each Superior Scribbler must in turn pass The Award on to 5 most-deserving Bloggy Friends.
2. Each Superior Scribbler must link to the author & the name of the blog from whom he/she has received The Award.
3. Each Superior Scribbler must display The Award on his/her blog, and link to this post, which explains The Award.
4. Each Blogger who wins The Superior Scribbler Award must visit this post and add his/her name to the Mr. Linky List. That way, we’ll be able to keep up-to-date on everyone who receives This Prestigious Honor!
5. Each Superior Scribbler must post these rules on his/her blog.
I choose…
Rebecca 2 Higher Ground
Kristen Divalicious Blog
Nicole It's All Good!
Jackie Obsessive-Compulsively Ruining My Nail Polish
S.A. Bolich Words From Thin Air
Thursday, August 13, 2009
DVD- True Blood Season One
A few years ago I read the first book in Charlaine Harris' southern vampire series, Dead Until Dark. While it was okay, I didn't enjoy it enough to read any more in the series. Since the books were turned into a series by HBO, I have heard from countless people that it is a must see for anyone who loves vampires. I do love vampires and shape-shifters and other assorted mythical creatures, well the stories about them anyways. Not having cable, I had to wait until the first season came out on DVD and then I finally broke down and watched it. While it is no Buffy, Angel or even the short lived, The Kindred, I can see why people are hooked on it. It's quirky. It's cheesy and it's fun. It's basically an entertaining bit of fluff for vampire lovers. It is rare for me to like a movie or TV show better than the book it was based on, but in this case, Charlaine's stories are just more compelling on the screen than in print.
The story takes place in Bon Temps, LA. Bon Temps is a small southern parish, full of what one has come to expect from a small town in the deep south. The accents are strong, the sheriff is a bumbling fool, there are Bible beaters, wife beaters, small town hussies, dumb jocks, rednecks, racial tension, gays hiding in the closets and plenty of intolerance in general. Being a southerner myself, if not from that far South, I want to be offended that Hollywood can't seem to stay away from those stereotypes. Unfortunately, growing up in and traveling extensively in the South, I have seen places and people just like these stereotypes. The cast and crew have captured these nuances beautifully.
As the story begins, due to a Japanese firms development of synthetic blood, vampires no long have to feed on humans to survive and have come out of hiding. Makes one question, what other mythical creatures are real? Future episodes will reveal some. With vampires becoming fellow citizens, religious and political leaders take sides, often to radical extremes. The people of Bon Temps are no exception.
The main character of the story is Sookie Stackhouse. Sookie is a waitress, with the gift of telepathy, at the local watering hole, Merlotte's. She is naive, way too trusting while at the same time being strongly opinionated and impulsive. I have never been a big fan of Anna Paquin, but she is perfect as the title character, Sookie. Her boss, Sam Merlotte, is secretly a shape shifter and not so secretly in love with Sookie. In another brilliant casting decision, he is played by the charming and sexy, Sam Trammell. Rounding out this particular love triangle is the vampire, Bill Compton, played to brooding excellence by Stephen Moyer. These three characters are the main driving force behind season one, although many notable supporting characters keep the show flowing and the entertainment from getting stale. There is Sookie's best friend Tara, who always has something to say and it's usually the wrong thing. Sookie's brother, Jason who can't seem to keep himself out of trouble or his pants on. On that note, I have to comment on the odd sex scenes, the directors of these episodes think we need to see. I'm no prude, but most of the sex scenes are just annoyingly weird and while Ryan Kwanten is cute, I don't need to see him naked in every episode. When did HBO decide to channel "Skinamax"? I digress, other note worthy supporting characters are my personal favorites, Lafayette Reynolds, superbly played by Nelsan Ellis. His character puts the spice in the show. Last but definitely not least, the exquisite Eric Northman, played by Alexander Skarsgard. No offense Tom Cruise, but Lestat you were not. Is it just me but where was Alexander Skarsgard when they cast Anne Rice's Interview with a Vampire? He would have been the perfect Lestat. As Lafayette would say, "I'm just saying!" Northman is the brooding sheriff of the Area 5 vampires. He has a certain benevolent look to him that disguises the darker side that oozes out when you least expect it.
While some of the minor characters are portrayed by less talented actors, it is the excellent casting of the main characters that drives the series to its success. For all the paranormal lovers out there, it is definitely a show worth watching. I give it five out of five silver crosses.
The story takes place in Bon Temps, LA. Bon Temps is a small southern parish, full of what one has come to expect from a small town in the deep south. The accents are strong, the sheriff is a bumbling fool, there are Bible beaters, wife beaters, small town hussies, dumb jocks, rednecks, racial tension, gays hiding in the closets and plenty of intolerance in general. Being a southerner myself, if not from that far South, I want to be offended that Hollywood can't seem to stay away from those stereotypes. Unfortunately, growing up in and traveling extensively in the South, I have seen places and people just like these stereotypes. The cast and crew have captured these nuances beautifully.
As the story begins, due to a Japanese firms development of synthetic blood, vampires no long have to feed on humans to survive and have come out of hiding. Makes one question, what other mythical creatures are real? Future episodes will reveal some. With vampires becoming fellow citizens, religious and political leaders take sides, often to radical extremes. The people of Bon Temps are no exception.
The main character of the story is Sookie Stackhouse. Sookie is a waitress, with the gift of telepathy, at the local watering hole, Merlotte's. She is naive, way too trusting while at the same time being strongly opinionated and impulsive. I have never been a big fan of Anna Paquin, but she is perfect as the title character, Sookie. Her boss, Sam Merlotte, is secretly a shape shifter and not so secretly in love with Sookie. In another brilliant casting decision, he is played by the charming and sexy, Sam Trammell. Rounding out this particular love triangle is the vampire, Bill Compton, played to brooding excellence by Stephen Moyer. These three characters are the main driving force behind season one, although many notable supporting characters keep the show flowing and the entertainment from getting stale. There is Sookie's best friend Tara, who always has something to say and it's usually the wrong thing. Sookie's brother, Jason who can't seem to keep himself out of trouble or his pants on. On that note, I have to comment on the odd sex scenes, the directors of these episodes think we need to see. I'm no prude, but most of the sex scenes are just annoyingly weird and while Ryan Kwanten is cute, I don't need to see him naked in every episode. When did HBO decide to channel "Skinamax"? I digress, other note worthy supporting characters are my personal favorites, Lafayette Reynolds, superbly played by Nelsan Ellis. His character puts the spice in the show. Last but definitely not least, the exquisite Eric Northman, played by Alexander Skarsgard. No offense Tom Cruise, but Lestat you were not. Is it just me but where was Alexander Skarsgard when they cast Anne Rice's Interview with a Vampire? He would have been the perfect Lestat. As Lafayette would say, "I'm just saying!" Northman is the brooding sheriff of the Area 5 vampires. He has a certain benevolent look to him that disguises the darker side that oozes out when you least expect it.
While some of the minor characters are portrayed by less talented actors, it is the excellent casting of the main characters that drives the series to its success. For all the paranormal lovers out there, it is definitely a show worth watching. I give it five out of five silver crosses.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Book Review - What's He Really Thinking? by Paula Rinehart
Professional counselor and author, Paula Rinehart uses her experience to delve into the male psyche in What's He Really Thinking? How To Be A Relationship Genius With The Man In Your Life. She takes a biblical look at understanding the men in our lives by understanding what motivates them, what hurts them, how they learn and what influence women play on them. She then delves into what we need and expect from men and why they react to these challenges and conflicts the way they do.
I've grown up around men and often feel more in tune to them than I do to women. I chose this book to see if Rinehart had some new insight into the minds of men. I was disappointed to read the same old "words of wisdom" that dozens of other authors, therapist, people in general provide. The only new perspective she offered was the biblical references. While I enjoyed this new perspective and the stories she provided as examples, I think she simplifies man too much. Men are definitely less complicated than women in many mental aspects; however, they can still be quite complex. It would be interesting to see how a man would review this book and if he would agree with her conclusions. The book may be helpful to women who have very little contact with men, but I don't feel the average woman will find it useful, although they may be able to relate to some of the examples given. I would only give it two out of five stars.
*This book was provided by Thomas Nelson.
I've grown up around men and often feel more in tune to them than I do to women. I chose this book to see if Rinehart had some new insight into the minds of men. I was disappointed to read the same old "words of wisdom" that dozens of other authors, therapist, people in general provide. The only new perspective she offered was the biblical references. While I enjoyed this new perspective and the stories she provided as examples, I think she simplifies man too much. Men are definitely less complicated than women in many mental aspects; however, they can still be quite complex. It would be interesting to see how a man would review this book and if he would agree with her conclusions. The book may be helpful to women who have very little contact with men, but I don't feel the average woman will find it useful, although they may be able to relate to some of the examples given. I would only give it two out of five stars.
*This book was provided by Thomas Nelson.
TV- Defying Gravity
I grew up watching the original Star Trek and Battlestar Gallactica and a little remembered shows like Space 1999 and Buck Rodgers. I have many fond memories of watching those shows with my dad and sometimes my brother, although he was off with his friends most of the time and I was a daddy's girl. Watching those shows today, many seem cheesy and the special effects hap-hazard. But there is something to be said for the sci-fi shows back then. They didn't have all the CGI technology of today, so when you seen other worlds, space ships, unbelievable props there was a crew of amazingly gifted people who built all those objects and models. Today we take all that for granted because a computer wiz with a few key strokes can create anything they want us to see. For me I still love a good sci-fi, even with my disdain for the laziness CGI has created. A good space show will still take me back to my childhood. Over the years they have done a dozen remakes and versions of Star Trek, Battlestar Gallactica and I have never been interested in watching them. They just aren't the original.
Now ABC has started a new Canadian produced series, Defying Gravity, that will run for 13 episodes. The series is set in the year 2052. It follows eight astronauts on a six year mission through the solar system and various supporting characters on Earth. For the astronauts aboard Antares, every nuance of their journey is monitored and recorded for an ongoing documentary being broadcast back on Earth. A mysterious source, known as Beta is controlling their lives and impacting their mission. Only a handful on Earth and the Antares Commander know of this mysterious influence.
There are many recognizable faces in the cast and the studios have succeeded in producing an engaging new series. The media has billed this as "Grey's Anatomy in Space". Having seen the first few episodes, I think it is a poor comparison. The series has just started but so far I give it four and a half out of five rocket boosters. Let's hope the series continues to engage viewers and doesn't follow Grey's path of disappointment, ridiculous story lines and mediocre acting.
You can watch Defying Gravity on ABC, Sunday nights at 10pm EST or on the ABC website (click post title for link).
Now ABC has started a new Canadian produced series, Defying Gravity, that will run for 13 episodes. The series is set in the year 2052. It follows eight astronauts on a six year mission through the solar system and various supporting characters on Earth. For the astronauts aboard Antares, every nuance of their journey is monitored and recorded for an ongoing documentary being broadcast back on Earth. A mysterious source, known as Beta is controlling their lives and impacting their mission. Only a handful on Earth and the Antares Commander know of this mysterious influence.
There are many recognizable faces in the cast and the studios have succeeded in producing an engaging new series. The media has billed this as "Grey's Anatomy in Space". Having seen the first few episodes, I think it is a poor comparison. The series has just started but so far I give it four and a half out of five rocket boosters. Let's hope the series continues to engage viewers and doesn't follow Grey's path of disappointment, ridiculous story lines and mediocre acting.
You can watch Defying Gravity on ABC, Sunday nights at 10pm EST or on the ABC website (click post title for link).
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Book Review - Skinwalker by Faith Hunter
Faith Hunter's Skinwalker follows Cherokee vampire hunter, Jane Yellowrock to New Orleans to track a rogue vampire killing humans and it's own kind. Jane isn't just an ordinary vampire slayer, she's a skinwalker with the ability to transform into other creatures. After recovering from slaying a family of rogues, Jane is hired by Katie, vampire madame of Katie's Ladies and the vampire council in New Orleans. Jane has ten days to track down and destroy the rogue while avoiding becoming entangled in vampire and police politics or becoming the new plaything of the head vampire, Leo or one of his minions.
Hunter has assembled an interesting assortment of characters and an intriguing storyline. The plot and the arc of the story are compelling. The problem is with the pacing. Momentum builds and as a reader, you are pulled into the action, then Hunter bogs you down with flashbacks and so much extraneous detail that she brings the reader to a grinding halt, trying to digest the onslaught of factoids. Then the action once again takes off, but as the reader, you're still trying to digest her details and how they affect the action taking place. The excessive detailing also takes focus away from the readers ability to form an association with the characters. The main character, Jane Yellowrock, is so overly described and has so many odd unexplained flashbacks, that she becomes confusing. Where did she come from? What made her who she is? What exactly is she? Is this book about the action or the random thoughts of the main character? Given the amount of detailing Hunter does, those are questions that should have been answered and possibly in a way they had been, but with so much to filter through it is hard to say. I did like the plot and the creativity behind the story, although I would have enjoyed it more with less extraneous details. I would give this three out of five stakes.
Hunter has assembled an interesting assortment of characters and an intriguing storyline. The plot and the arc of the story are compelling. The problem is with the pacing. Momentum builds and as a reader, you are pulled into the action, then Hunter bogs you down with flashbacks and so much extraneous detail that she brings the reader to a grinding halt, trying to digest the onslaught of factoids. Then the action once again takes off, but as the reader, you're still trying to digest her details and how they affect the action taking place. The excessive detailing also takes focus away from the readers ability to form an association with the characters. The main character, Jane Yellowrock, is so overly described and has so many odd unexplained flashbacks, that she becomes confusing. Where did she come from? What made her who she is? What exactly is she? Is this book about the action or the random thoughts of the main character? Given the amount of detailing Hunter does, those are questions that should have been answered and possibly in a way they had been, but with so much to filter through it is hard to say. I did like the plot and the creativity behind the story, although I would have enjoyed it more with less extraneous details. I would give this three out of five stakes.
Friday, August 7, 2009
Book Review - King By Right of Blood and Might by Anna L. Walls
What if the world as we know it catastrophically destroyed and only a small number of humans were left to survive in a world practically taken back to the stone ages, or more precisely the ice age? Those survivors would be charged with rebuilding the world and dealing with the effects of starvation, radiation poisoning, genetic mutation, re-learning how to survive without all our modern conveniences. Now imagine if you will thousands of years into the future. The modern Ice Age has ended and future generations have learned not only to adapt but to reform societies again. Those genetic mutations have taken the form of people gifted with the power to move objects, shape shift, heal, read thoughts and bend minds. Have they become more highly evolved beings or is mankind still destined to follow the footsteps of those who lived through the dark and middle ages of history?
At first glance, King by Right of Blood and Might looks like your typical medieval tale. Don't let the cover fool you, this book doesn't take place in the distant past, it takes place in the distant future after the world has healed from a global devastation. This is the first novel self published by Anna L. Walls.
The first thing that struck me as unique was finding a Table of Contents. Outside of textbooks, non-fiction books and anthologies, it is not something I often find in fiction books published today. Seeing so many short chapters, my first thought was, "uh-oh, this is going to be really choppy." In reality her shorter chapters flowed beautifully and kept me up most of the night because I'd say to myself, "the next chapter is only a few more pages and I have to see what happens." Then at the end of that chapter, "Oh, I can read just one more.." Needless to say I finished the book in one night.
King by Right of Blood and Might, is the journey of a sixteen year old boy. A prince who has led a sheltered life inside the walls of palace. Prince Harris is the only son of King Aidyn and Queen Lucida of Penn. In the beginning, Harris appears to be an over-protected, bored child. His father obviously loves him but lets his fear for the safety of his family from allowing them to grow and flourish. King Aidyn goes through the motions of being king, allowing other to make the decisions by merely signing whatever is put before him. He knows he can not let his kingdom continue this way, so when King Carroll of the Carolinas sends his envoy and 3rd son, Prince Jonathan to Penn, suggesting they foster each other's sons, King Aidyn sends Harris south to Carolinas. Before he leaves, Harris begins what will be a lifelong bond with Prince Jonathan.
And so the adventure of Prince Harris begins as he is thrust into a kingdom nothing like his own. He will learn what it really means to be a diplomat and a ruler from King Carroll and his family, while back home his own kingdom is crumbling to ruins. He will need all these valuable lessons as he must face the challenge of united former foes to create an army to save his people and rebuild his Kingdom. Some of the interesting characters who will join him along his journey will be Sholeh, the healer; Juan, the son of the Nomad leader, Duncan; Safi, a truthsayer child who will become his ward and bodyguard; Evan, the nomad shapeshifter and many more.
Does Harris have what it takes to bring a truce to all the kingdoms and bridge the gaps and prejudices of the different races? I could tell you, but I want you to go out and buy this fabulous book for yourself. You will not be disappointed. Anna Walls succeeds in taking the reader on an epic journey and leaving them wanting more. Luckily she has another installment in the works. This book is a great read for any age, but would make a great gift to any young adult in your life.
Since it is self-published the best place to find it is on Amazon or ask your local book seller to stock it.
At first glance, King by Right of Blood and Might looks like your typical medieval tale. Don't let the cover fool you, this book doesn't take place in the distant past, it takes place in the distant future after the world has healed from a global devastation. This is the first novel self published by Anna L. Walls.
The first thing that struck me as unique was finding a Table of Contents. Outside of textbooks, non-fiction books and anthologies, it is not something I often find in fiction books published today. Seeing so many short chapters, my first thought was, "uh-oh, this is going to be really choppy." In reality her shorter chapters flowed beautifully and kept me up most of the night because I'd say to myself, "the next chapter is only a few more pages and I have to see what happens." Then at the end of that chapter, "Oh, I can read just one more.." Needless to say I finished the book in one night.
King by Right of Blood and Might, is the journey of a sixteen year old boy. A prince who has led a sheltered life inside the walls of palace. Prince Harris is the only son of King Aidyn and Queen Lucida of Penn. In the beginning, Harris appears to be an over-protected, bored child. His father obviously loves him but lets his fear for the safety of his family from allowing them to grow and flourish. King Aidyn goes through the motions of being king, allowing other to make the decisions by merely signing whatever is put before him. He knows he can not let his kingdom continue this way, so when King Carroll of the Carolinas sends his envoy and 3rd son, Prince Jonathan to Penn, suggesting they foster each other's sons, King Aidyn sends Harris south to Carolinas. Before he leaves, Harris begins what will be a lifelong bond with Prince Jonathan.
And so the adventure of Prince Harris begins as he is thrust into a kingdom nothing like his own. He will learn what it really means to be a diplomat and a ruler from King Carroll and his family, while back home his own kingdom is crumbling to ruins. He will need all these valuable lessons as he must face the challenge of united former foes to create an army to save his people and rebuild his Kingdom. Some of the interesting characters who will join him along his journey will be Sholeh, the healer; Juan, the son of the Nomad leader, Duncan; Safi, a truthsayer child who will become his ward and bodyguard; Evan, the nomad shapeshifter and many more.
Does Harris have what it takes to bring a truce to all the kingdoms and bridge the gaps and prejudices of the different races? I could tell you, but I want you to go out and buy this fabulous book for yourself. You will not be disappointed. Anna Walls succeeds in taking the reader on an epic journey and leaving them wanting more. Luckily she has another installment in the works. This book is a great read for any age, but would make a great gift to any young adult in your life.
Since it is self-published the best place to find it is on Amazon or ask your local book seller to stock it.
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