Reader Views

Chrysalis: The Awakening (Book 1)

Born a mortal, yet destined to be one of the most powerful of the Chosen Ones, Bree Campbell begins awakening to the truth of who she really is at the age of thirty-two. Her mortal life has been full of pain, and to protect her secret the memories of thirteen years of her life were erased. Escaping from a painfully abusive marriage, Bree begins to reconnect with who she is and discovers that she has a tremendous destiny ahead of her.

Bree has been selected to help save the mortal world by helping repair a rift that exists between it and the magical world. To make matters more difficult she has to help rid the mortal world of demons that have been wrecking havoc while trying to gain control.

Being reunited with people from her past, Bree starts coming into her power. Even as a mortal she discovers that she has acquired some very strong magical abilities. Fearing for her safety, because she is still mortal and there are many that want her dead, a clan of vampires comes to Bree’s aid and select her to be a part of them. Included in this clan is Bree’s forgotten love Steve. Bree has to deal with regaining her lost memories and her transformation. She also has to figure out who she can trust as her metamorphosis begins so that she can stay alive.

M.L. Lacy has written a powerful fantasy novel with "Chrysalis: The Awakening." Incorporating a variety of magical elements into her story makes it a very enjoyable escape. Underlying the drama of having to save the world, there is also a deeper theme for the heroine. Bree’s human experiences have taught her to value her humanity. Even as she is beginning the process of becoming a very powerful immortal, a Chosen One, Bree still has to reconcile her human values with her new understanding of immortal values. I found this aspect of the story to be extremely interesting and well written. I truly enjoyed this novel and highly recommend it. I look forward to reading the continuing series.

Chrysalis: The Awakening (Book 1)
M.L. Lacy
AuthorHouse (2009)
ISBN 9781438959856
Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (6/09)

Moments with Baxter: Comfort and Love from the World’s Best Therapy Dog

If you’ve ever owned a pet – or as I prefer to say, only half-jokingly – if you’ve ever been owned by a pet, the stories from this wonderful book will not surprise you. They will – and they should! – delight you and inspire you, but I bet any "pet parent" will nod and smile while reading about the amazing healing and comforting powers of Baxter, the miracle worker among service dogs.

All of us should pause for a moment and take a really good look at the way most pets interact with us – with pretty limitless patience, gentleness and devotion, unparalleled by anything one could routinely find among humans. They expect little in return, and they keep lavishing their attention on us and giving us so much joy. In the past I’ve read numerous studies about the beneficial influences of animals on ill people and I’ve experienced the calming and steadying effect a devoted pet has on me. The absolutely beautiful "Moments with Baxter" by Melissa Joseph takes those observations of mine several steps further. Through a series of thirty-six true stories of Baxter’s interactions with terminally-ill patients at San Diego Hospice the author paints a wonderful portrait of a truly miraculous health worker who just happens to be a canine. Baxter is a certified therapy dog and his ability to comfort and ease the suffering of the patients at the hospice is absolutely phenomenal. As wonderful as the stories are, it was the photographs that truly stole my heart. Although Baxter is over 19-years-old now, he has a sweet, innocent face of a puppy and incredibly kind eyes. Now that he’s older, he actually has the look of a well-loved and appropriately "worn" teddy bear or one’s favorite blanket. The more stories I read, the more I was in awe of Baxter’s innate ability to find just the right way to approach any of the diverse and always difficult situations. Even under the toughest of circumstances, where the trained human health professionals were at a loss of how to ease the patient’s suffering, Baxter seemed to find just the right approach.

Written with immense compassion, warmth and respect for privacy and dignity of those involved, "Moments with Baxter" by Melissa Joseph is a book that could teach us a lot about the extraordinary bond between humans and animals as well as a number of valuable lessons about dealing with pain, suffering and death. I feel certain that those readers who will find themselves inspired by Baxter’s story, and who might want to become involved in similar ministry together with their canine companion, will find the concluding chapter on Therapy Dog Team Training very helpful and informative. "Moments with Baxter" is a book that is both heart-wrenching and heart-warming and I would decidedly recommend it to all animal lovers as well as anybody who might be dealing with issues concerning terminal illness.

Moments with Baxter: Comfort and Love from the World’s Best Therapy Dog
Melissa Joseph
Sage Press (2009)
ISBN 9780981881300
Reviewed by Olivera Baumgartner-Jackson for Reader Views (6/09)

Meaning and Relatedness

"Meaning and Relatedness" combines Eastern Philosophy, Mysticism, Spirituality and poetic fiction in a thought-producing exploration into discovery. Khepri Rising draws from the masters, classic and contemporary philosophers, theologians, and respected friends in his personal quest for truth and meaning.

Rising writes to encourage the reader to more distinctly and qualitatively question the status quo to endeavor to make change, to make people better people, smarter, more aware, and more sensitive. By means of involving the reader in a philosophical introspection he exposes the shallow expectations of acceptance and challenges the reader to experience reality in the discovery of the person we really are.

Reminiscent of the counterculture of the beatnik, it is unlikely that "Meaning and Relatedness" will bring a resurgence of its influence; however, these existential poetic ruminations will have a significant resonance with generation X.

In a lengthy treatise on "words" Rising gives the reader cause to ponder the conundrum of language and the symbolic representations of words. Articulate and expressive in his use of words Rising teases the reader with a panache of lighthearted rhetoric and riddles as to their meanings.

Rising discloses his underlying thirst for idealism in ethics that always asks: What should I do? What is right? His honesty and vulnerability in humbly sharing his thoughts on holocaust victims is deeply moving and unearths the evil and a dark foreboding side of man which demands personal reflection and a sober self examination.

Meaning and Relatedness
Khepri Rising
Lulu (2008)
ISBN 9780615255477
Reviewed by Richard R. Blake for Reader Views (6/09)

Ginger High

Daisy Fisher is a normal teenager until the day her school is burned down by one of her own friends. Luckily, one of her parent’s friends is the principal of Ginger High.

Ginger High is not like most high schools. For one thing, gym class consists of Daisy getting beaten up by another student. Not only that, but everyone keeps talking about "powers." What powers? And what will they do to Daisy when they find out that she doesn't have any? Or does she?

At the same time the book follows Matthias and Amanta as they reunite after years apart. But as soon as they meet they are called to heal the king’s daughter, murdered in her bed. Both of the friends then set after the killer who they believe is somewhere on Earth. The two end up at Ginger High, where the murders continue. Can they catch the murderer before it’s too late?

I’ve never read a book like "Ginger High" before. But I wish that some things in the book were explained better - like the concept of the tribes, which was very fascinating to me.

"Ginger High" is an interesting and attention-grabbing book and if it has a sequel I am definitely picking it up. Melissa Burmester, who is 14 years old, is an accomplished writer.

Ginger High
Melissa Burmester
Infinity Publishing (2009)
ISBN 9780741453631
Reviewed by Neha N. Kashmiri (age 14) for Reader Views (3/09)

Return of the Dittos

Edward De Bono the author once said that humor is by far the most significant activity of the human brain. If this is true, then "Return of the Dittos" proves conclusively that the fertile brain of its author, Dale Andrew White, continues to work overtime, much to the benefit of his readers.

"Return of the Dittos" is a rich confection of satire and humor, all boxed in twenty short stories and tied with a ribbon. There is no central theme to the stories which adds an element of surprise and anticipation to each one. Browsing through the stories the reader will be entertained by the account of a bag boy revolt in a rundown grocery store; a cat fight to end all cat fights over the presidency of a posh woman’s club; the boring and mind numbing revelations of an aging, semi-retired rock star; and even a bit of revisionist history concerning what really happened when Christopher Columbus approached Queen Isabella about exploring the new world. My favorite of the lot is the story of B. B. Motley, an up-and-coming young lawyer, who tries desperately and unsuccessfully to conceal from the staid, old law firm he works for the fact that he comes from a family of circus clowns.

One of the things that makes the stories in "Return of the Dittos" so clever and humorous, is White’s agile use of names to identify places and people. Several stories take place in Swampwater, which is the county seat of Mosquito County, Florida for example; and while reading the book, the reader meets such characters as Mr. Knuckell, a heavy-handed and authoritative high-school principal; and Emily Hattcheck, a shy and unassuming member of the aforementioned woman’s club. But among the divers cast of character portrayed in the book my favorite is Parker Pry, a nose fetishist who succumbs to the charms of a nasally-challenged married lady appropriately named Wendy Schnott.

I have to admit that even after reading White’s stories several times, I still have trouble describing his writing style. Some of his stories come across as being written in the classic style of humorists like Mark Twain or the British satirist Saki, while others remind me of the kind of comedy portrayed in the slapstick movies of Charlie Chaplin or Laurel and Hardy. Still other stories come across with raw, in-your-face humor worthy of Comedy Central. All I know is that Dale Andrew White is a clever and talented writer and "Return of the Dittos" is a truly funny book. It’s the kind of book you want to have with you when you have some time to kill and are ready to laugh at yourself and laugh at the world.

Return of the Dittos
Dale Andrew White
BookSurge (2009)
ISBN 9781439227329
Reviewed by Ron Standerfer for Reader Views (6/09)

Awakening

"Awakening" begins when Emilia, Mia to her friends and family, is attacked by a horrific demon called Craze. When she returns home nothing is the same as she left it. A Kistune demon disguised as a human will not leave her alone, wanting something more than to just steal her soul. She finds out that she is the successor to her grandfather’s position as a death angel. A death angel is a human appointed by either God or Lucifer to collect souls for them. In Mia’s case, though, things get complicated because both powers are working together.

But at the same time she is pursued by Markus, a dangerous being who wants to destroy every death angel in the world so that he may become a god. Mia cannot let that happen, but first she has to learn how to use her powers. And then the stakes rise higher when she finds out that her blood is toxic to everything it touches -- including herself. There is only one way to slow its venom, but that would require turning someone she loves into something he hates.

"Awakening" is part romance, part supernatural adventure, and part mystery with an end that leaves you wanting more.

I really enjoyed the plot of "Awakening" though to be honest the writing wasn’t the best. Mia is a stubborn, sarcastic and funny heroine. I loved learning about Japanese creatures and even the mythology in the book is interesting. I recommend "Awakening" by K. Lippi to anyone who likes Japanese culture or someone who loves supernatural romances.

Awakening
K. Lippi
Mirror Publishing (2009)
ISBN 9781936046140
Reviewed by Neha N. Kashmiri (age 14) for Reader Views (6/09)

Toast With Jelly

Pam’s life has never been easy. Having lost her father early in life, she was then repeatedly raped by her stepfather as a child. It then came as no surprise that, when old enough, she got involved in a sexual relationship with a woman, having lost her trust in men a long time ago. But life did not get much more merciful with her. Caught in a dead-end waitressing job, mostly due to her refusal to be close to her mother, both her personal and her work life are getting less and less pleasant. Her live-in-lover, Faina, is getting moodier and moodier. As for Faina being faithful, it seems that not being lonely ranks way higher on Faina’s list than being faithful. Then Pam meets Darryl, a strangely appealing young man, and starts a whirlwind romance with him. She also gets a different job, which is way better paid, but also way more detrimental to Pam’s sanity and safety. Dealing with her confused sexuality, perennial lack of luck (can you say beating, betrayal, rape and more?) and unresolved feelings towards her badly messed-up mother, Pam is caught in an ill-fated quest for her true self, love, respect and a safe harbor.

E. F. Sheehan’s "Toast With Jelly" is a heart-breakingly sad and scary book. Deeply touching, with a fluid, fast moving storyline that is both relevant and contemporary, dealing with one woman’s pursuit of happiness and her perennial sexual confusion, this is a book without any heroes, just victims and villains. While I cannot say I got particularly emotionally close to any of the characters, I have to say that they were believable, realistic and three-dimensional. E. F. Sheehan’s writing is honest and oftentimes raw, always vivid and hard-hitting. Pam’s utter confusion is tangible, if not completely understandable to me. While I can clearly understand the desire to pile all the ills of the world upon Pam, a part of me was begging for a break for this unfortunate victim of pitiless, clearly male-dominated world. It was just really hard to see the "heroine," who’s anything but heroic, go from a lackluster existence to incredible, nightmarish depths of misery and self-loathing. If this book was written as a catharsis, I sure hope it helped E. F. Sheehan.

If you do not shy from raw and bleak facets of life, if you are accepting of the "alternative" lifestyles and if a happy ending is not a requirement for you to enjoy a book, pick up E. F. Sheehan’s "Toast With Jelly" and get ready for an emotional, dramatic and profoundly genuine book.

Toast With Jelly
E. F. Sheehan
Raular Publishing (2009)
ISBN 9780982056219
Reviewed by Olivera Baumgartner-Jackson for Reader Views (5/09)

Oklahoma’s Carlisle Indian School Immortals

Tom Benjey has given readers an incredible story of North American Indian history as well as an in-depth glance at Native Americans’ role in the sports world. Having read many books on the history of Indians, I have never read a book that is so detailed and enjoyable to read. One can tell the author is an expert in his field.

This is more than just a sports history book, it gives readers a great insight into prejudices, lives of individuals living on the reservation and how these men overcame all obstacles to become successful in their lives.

Not many will know much about the Carlisle Indian team, but they will recognize many of the names mentioned in the book that are now in the Football Hall of Fame. The author has provided readers with pictures, cartoons and authentic letters that enhance the reading. One can tell the extensive research the author did to make this book factual.

Part of what fascinated me was that these students went to school, took off to work and returned to school never missing a beat. How great that is that the administrators and mentors were so encouraging to all their students to complete their schooling and yet at the same time went to great lengths to learn about their culture.

Readers will find so much interesting information and history in "Oklahoma’s Carlisle Indian School Immortals" by Tom Benjey they won’t be able to put this book down.

Oklahoma’s Carlisle Indian School Immortals
Tom Benjey
Tuxedo Press (2009)
ISBN 9780977448685
Reviewed by Carol Hoyer, PhD, for Reader Views (6/09)

Elijah’s Coin: A Lesson for Life

Steve O’Brien has written an excellent book and one everyone should read over and over. His description of the characters and events are vivid, colorful and full of adventure.

There really are two parts to this thought-provoking story. In the first part, Tom, a college student, is devastated over the loss of his mother and his father is lost in his own grief. Deciding that he can do whatever he wants and take what he wants, like his mother was taken from him; he begins a disastrous journey to a life of crime.

One night he decides to break into a store that is not monitored by the police or have a security guard. Little does he know there actually is a security guard; however, it is not your average security guard. Tom meets Elijah King. Leery of Elijah’s asking all types of personal questions, Tom decides to play along so King won’t turn him over to the police. Elijah takes Tom’s drivers license and requires him to come back for two more meetings with him. On the second night Elijah gives Tom a coin with G2G on one side and EK on the other. On the third night Tom returns but Elijah is not there.

Deciding to search out the men Elijah said he has mentored, Tom discovers each has an identical coin and each are just as mysterious in their responses to where Elijah can be found. Tom begins his journey of transformation and eventually ends up being needed by others who seek him out due to Elijah talking about him

"Elijah’s Coin" by Steve O’Brien is a very thought-provoking book of change. It really will make you look at who you are, what you want and where are going? It’s not about you- it’s about giving, sharing and loving unconditionally.

Elijah’s Coin: A Lesson for Life
Steve O’Brien
A & N Publishing (2009)
ISBN 9780982073544
Reviewed by Carol Hoyer, PhD, for Reader Views (5/09)

Pureheart

"Pureheart" is a perfect blend of the ingredients that it takes to produce a great book. Warm fuzziness, loveable characters, un-loveable characters, an interesting plot, a touch of heaven and a bit of hell create this consuming piece. Yep, it contains pure evil from the unearthly bowels of hell. I am not one who normally reads the guts and gore but now say, with the right balance it helps to make a good book great. "Pureheart" by Rita Hsu Syers is nothing short of great.

A petite, regal Brazelton Boston terrier wins the coveted St. Aubyn Kennel Club’s "Best in Show" trophy and proceeds on a destiny to help save the world of terrible demise. A constant voice inside this small dog’s head leads her out of the spotlight of New York City to an animal shelter in the small town of Chincawee. Limping and consumed with pneumonia, nearing death, she collapses on the doorstep of the Women’s Humane Society for Animals. Lucifer himself could not stop her from making the trek. Seeking love, not fame, the feisty little animal wills herself back to life, longing for the home and companionship she has never felt before.

As the voice inside the terrier’s head led her to the shelter, Maeve, along with her daughter Maggie, was being led to the same shelter. Shortly after Maeve and Maggie entered the shelter they came out the door with the beautiful and happy Bronwen. Several months later Bronwen gave birth to one male and one female pup conceived through Immaculate Conception.

The tale falls into place with events proceed that were destined to happen before time began. One pup is a warrior, the other a healer. Each is faced with many challenges until the day of the Luna demonicus. As all hell breaks loose with demon raptors battling warrior angels, the puppy’s work, along with a great blend of family, to save life as we know it.

All is not as we hope it would be and "Pureheart" by Rita Hsu Syers blends its own mix on good and evil. This is truly a book you will not be able to put down once you begin reading. It may be the voice, but I think it’s the quality. "PureHeart ends. LionHeart begins." I for one can’t wait for the next installment.

Pureheart
Rita Hsu Syers
Bronwen Publishing (2009)
ISBN 9780977926701
Reviewed by Danelle Drake for Reader Views (2/09)

Florida’s Vanishing Trail

It was truly the Garden of Eden. Birds, fish, and animals of every size and description thrived together in a landscape of lush tropical vegetation amongst exotic flowers and palm trees that rose in some places to more than one-hundred feet; all relatively untouched by man. This was the Florida Everglades region of Southwest Florida in the 1700s; the departure point for James Hammond’s fascinating and well-researched book, "Florida’s Vanishing Trail."

But like the biblical Garden of Eden, the lush, peaceful life of the Everglades was not destined to last; and, after a brief overview, Hammond takes the reader forward in time to when paradise was lost, namely, in the early 1800s. This is when white settlers began arriving in Northern Florida and began forcing the Seminole Indians further south and into the interior. Relations between the two factions deteriorated rapidly into what is characterized as the Seminole Wars.

Dates assigned later in history identify three distinct phases of the wars: The First Seminole War 1817-1818, The Second Seminole War 1835-1842 and the Third Seminole War (sometimes called The Billy Bowlegs War) 1855-1858. These phases mark the periods of the greatest unrest and the most overt hostility in the region; and in response to this unrest, the U.S. government built a series of eight Army forts in the Everglades starting with Old Fort Foster, established in 1837. In a narrative rich in detail gleaned from old photographs, drawings, maps, military dispatches, letters and diaries, Hammond describes each fort and provides anecdotal evidence of the role each played in the Seminole Wars.

After the Seminole Wars came the inevitable rush toward expansion and development as more settlers moved into the area. Groves and fields were planted, sawmills were built to support the growing lumbering industry, and an infrastructure of roads, and rail lines was established to get the goods to market. Prominent developers during this period between the late 1800s and early 1900s include the Collier family from the Naples area and the ubiquitous Henry Flagler who was in the process of extending his railroad down to Miami. This is my favorite part of the book. The pictures are more numerous and of better quality and leafing through the pages you can see Indian chiefs, medicine men, grove and sawmill workers, wealthy families in their Sunday best, and settlers standing in front of their meager homes; all gazing out through the mist of time. My favorite picture in the book is that of the first passenger train started in the Big Cypress in 1917. It consisted of a steel box welded to a Model T Ford, which in turn was modified to run on a set of railroad tracks!

Being a resident of Southeast Florida not too far from Miami, I could not wait to finish "Florida’s Vanishing Trail" by James Hammond and strike out on my own to see all the places so ably described. Unfortunately, I soon found out that most of the monuments, historical markers, and old buildings worth seeing were either lost, stolen or are locked securely behind the fences of state parks and Indian reservations. I guess I will have to settle for a nostalgic drive down the Tamiami Trail, which is now called US Highway 41. Meanwhile, you don’t have to be a historian, or even a Floridian to enjoy this wonderful book. There’s something in it for everyone.

Florida’s Vanishing Trail
James Hammond
Lulu Enterprises (2008)
ISBN 9780578003856
Reviewed by Ron Standerfer for Reader Views (3/09)

Addiction: What's Really Going On? Inside a Heroin Treatment Program

In "Addiction: What is Really Going On?," substance abuse counselor Deborah McCloskey takes us inside a southern California treatment program for heroin addicts. By reading her story, which was fascinating, we learn about the ins and outs of methadone treatment. We also learn about the counselors and addicts. Each person has their own story. If the addicts don’t deal with their issues, their chances of staying clean are nil. If the substance abuse counselors don’t deal with their own personal issues as well, then they have a harder time being effective counselors. It was sad to learn that many of them, who are in recovery themselves, also relapse.

Through her experiences and compassion, Ms. McCloskey learned how to work with addicts. Even though she didn’t always find success with them, she was able to gain their respect and learn how they might try to trick her. I learned a lot from her counseling style. Even though she didn’t let her clients get away with anything, she still was able to gain their respect. Dealing effectively with some of her co-workers and a supervisor also took some skill on her part.

As a graduate of a Master of Science program in Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling, part of which involved training in Substance Abuse Counseling, I truly wished that I had had a book like this when I was learning about addictions. I think that every student in the program would have benefited. By reading about the clients, their games, their addiction, and what worked, my classmates and I would have benefited hugely. This in turn would have helped the people with whom we were doing our practicum hours.

Heroin addiction is an insidious problem in our society. Ms. McCloskey was successful in finding some alternative ways of dealing with treatment. She didn’t like how the system functioned because it definitely was not working for everyone, and so she made some changes on her own caseload to find out how she could achieve success. I really think that "Addiction: What's Really Going On? Inside a Heroin Treatment Program" should be read by all people who are involved in some form of substance abuse, whether they are counselors, addicts, or family members of addicts. Sadly because of her passing, Ms. McCloskey will no longer be able to directly help others in this field; however, by assisting with telling her story, Barbara Sinor, PhD, has stepped in as a co-author on this book and in doing so, allows her work to carry on.

Addiction: What's Really Going On?
Deborah McCloskey, CADC & Barbara Sinor, PhD
Loving Healing Press (2009)
ISBN 9781932690934
Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (5/09)

101 Tips For Survivors of Sexual Abuse: A Pocket Book of Wisdom

"101 Tips for Survivors of Sexual Abuse" is a twenty-three page book that does not waste one word. Small enough to be carried around in a purse or briefcase, this book touches on the subject of sexual abuse. Each tip addresses a different issue that a victim might be dealing with or have dealt with. By reading the tips, I felt that survivors of sexual abuse will be easily be able to relate to most of them and in doing so, they will also know that they are not alone with whatever feelings they are experiencing. This would especially apply to the painful areas of feeling guilt and shame.

Each tip has a paragraph space underneath it which will also allow the reader to make personal notes for themselves. This will be helpful because as they go through their recovery, they will probably be experiencing a myriad of emotions at different times. By taking notes, they will be able to address the feeling that they are experiencing at that moment in time, and they will also be able to look back and reflect on how far they have come with their recovery.

At the end of the book is a list of suggestions and exercises for people to do when they are having bad moments. There is a suggested reading list. I think that all of these will make excellent tools for people who need some guidance when they are dealing with their painful thoughts and negative emotions. It will give them something practical to do to help with their healing.

I think that "101 Tips for Survivors of Sexual Abuse" by Amy Barth will be perfect for both individuals, family members and for people in group therapy. The information within is highly personal, however, it would make great discussion material for both family members in recovery and for group counseling sessions.

101 Tips For Survivors of Sexual Abuse: A Pocket Book of Wisdom
Amy Barth
Loving Healing Press (2009)
ISBN 9781932690941
Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (5/09)

Thoughts: Life of a Suicide

Author Dillan Kane’s book is one of the most incredible books I have read on suicide. His brother killed himself at the age of 16. Like most persons who have experienced this, the author is trying to understand why such a thing could happen.

He begins his book with ‘Commonalities of Suicide’ that have helped him try to understand a suicidal person better. He shares the story of his own brother and many others he has worked with that have attempted or completed suicide. When you read this book, it will be just like you were having a conversation with the author. He provides much in-depth knowledge about depression, suicidal thoughts and the healing process.

During this conversation with readers, Kane talks about how individuals who feel lost and hopeless can’t work out their problems and often don’t seek the help of others. He also addresses how those who are left behind feel hurt and anger- why didn’t they see what was happening? Many of us have looked back as the author did and realized there were signs, but we couldn’t believe that someone would deal with problems in that way.

The last chapter in the book addresses life after death. As the author states, depending on your beliefs and spiritual thoughts, we all have different views on this.

"Thoughts: Life of a Suicide" by Dillan Kane is a very moving and thoughtful look at why suicide happens with a lot of great information on signs to look for. As a Psychology instructor for several colleges, this is a book I recommended to my students to read and share with others.

Thoughts: Life of a Suicide
Dillan Kane
AuthorHouse (2009)
ISBN 9781438921860
Reviewed by Carol Hoyer, PhD, for Reader Views (5/09)

The Sweet War Man: A Novel

This is a book with characters that you will love and hate! The author who is prior military was very detailed with the development of his characters and facts about the military. Being an Army brat and the spouse of a military soldier, I could relate to this book completely.

Randy Thayer is joining the military because he has always wanted to fly; however, his girlfriend Andrea doesn’t want him to join and go to Vietnam. She would rather have him work for her father’s company. Andrea is very selfish, devious and power hungry. She does not understand the military and a soldier’s job, and doesn’t want to. She is the character you will love or hate.

Randy’s neighbor Faith has always been in love with Randy and stands by him with love and support through all his trials and tribulations. He loves her, but not with the same love he has for Andrea. Faith’s character is one whom readers will root for to win the love of Randy.

The reading was fast-paced and once you start reading you won’t want to put it down. The author did an excellent job on his first novel, "The Sweet War Man." I would love to see more books by Paul Barcelo.

The Sweet War Man: A Novel
Paul Barcelo
iUniverse (2009)
ISBN 9781440119958
Reviewed by Carol Hoyer, PhD, for Reader Views (6/09)

Offerings: A Novel

Christine Sunderland has given readers a great read in the second book of her trilogy involving the Seymour’s life. This is a fast-paced novel with great historical detail, drama and loss.

Jack Seymour at the age of twelve witnessed his father’s death and never got over the trauma of it. His marriage to Madeleine is wonderful and he seems to be happy with the way his life is going. Later their daughter Mollie dies and Jack is once again traumatized and Madeleine blames herself for her daughter’s death.

They were blessed with a son Justin whose marriage was taking place and., during the reception, Jack collapses and is rushed to the hospital where the family finds out that he only has six months to live. However, if he has a special surgery his life will be prolonged. There is only one person Jack wants to do his surgery and that is Dr. Rachelle DuPres. The problem is that Dr. DuPres has fled the country and no one will, or can, give him her exact location. Obsessed with finding this doctor Jack and Madeleine and their summer charge, Elena, fly to France to find her.

Dr. DuPres has fled to her homeland to find herself again and doesn’t want anyone to know where she is. With Jack, Madeleine and Elena on her trail, Dr. DuPres continues to elude them.

The author takes us through the beauty of France, visiting historical sites along the way where everyone tries to get Jack to believe in the higher power again. Her vivid descriptions of churches, villages and the power of miracles are breathtaking. This is a book that is fast-paced and full of drama. Readers won’t be able to put down "Offerings" by Christine Sunderland.

Offerings: A Novel
Christine Sunderland
OakTara Publishers (2009)
ISBN 9781602901711
Reviewed by Carol Hoyer, PhD, for Reader Views (6/09)

 

Looking Good Feeling Great Ladies 50 and Over

Although this is a topic many women keep researching, it is not a new topic. However, the information presented by the author is very informative and she offers many valuable and inexpensive solutions.

The first chapter starts out with a bang - menopause. Usually books I have read on the topic the author has chosen to hide menopause in the back part of the book. She makes great points about taking Hormone Replacement Therapy and concerns she has like getting cancer. Her recommendations on finding foods that have Omega 3, vitamins, calcium, and fiber were very helpful.

The second chapter talks about dietary factors- heavens we all know about that subject; we’re on/off diets all our life. Again, she provides some great information on what to drink and eat, plus the importance of getting enough sleep.

I found the chapter on mind and body to be a very important one. In today’s world we are running amuck most of the time- we get stressed, don’t get enough sleep and eat on the run, if we eat at all. The mind and body are connected and when we are worn out – our attitudes change and we tend to become sick. Ms. Bagnall’s suggestions on relaxation were quite informative.

I liked the way the author addressed each topic- it was if she was just sitting down and talking to you. There was no judgment, nothing saying "do it my way or else." "Looking Good Feeling Great Ladies 50 and Over" by Nina Bagnall is easy to read and very thought-provoking.

Looking Good Feeling Great Ladies 50 and Over
Nina Bagnall
Eloquent Books (2009)
ISBN 9781606934760
Reviewed by Carol Hoyer, PhD, for Reader Views (5/09)

Got An Angry Kid? Parenting Spike: A Seriously Difficult Child

The first reaction that I felt after reading "Got An Angry Kid?" was "Wow!" This book teaches parents how to effectively regain control of their family when dealing with a child or teen that is angry and disruptive. Changing how a parent interacts with their child is a key to success. The book is written very concisely and organized in a manner that will make it easy for parents to follow, in spite of there being many steps in the process. There are also appendices that contain charts for parents to track their goals and their children’s goals.

Initially, the book helps parents identify behaviors that their child or children are exhibiting that need to be dealt with. When the author wrote this book, he based much of it on his own personal childhood and parenting experiences. Then throughout the book he uses the story of Spike as his main example of how to apply the principles. He also uses other case examples of families from a variety of backgrounds who are dealing with angry children. This variety of examples and experiences will help parents relate them to what is happening in their own lives.

The program to be followed is referred to as PACT. It stands for Parenting Angry Children and Teens. PACT is a self-help program designed for parents dealing with angry children. It consists of a total of 28 goals that take about eight weeks for changes to begin and a year for the program to be completed. Parents are to apply goals to every aspect of their lives. The first three goals are very basic. The next twenty-five goals are advanced. Parents are not to progress to the next goal until they succeed with the previous one. They can use the charts provided for recording their progress.

I think that every parent who has an angry and disruptive child will benefit from following this program. For some, it won’t be easy because they are going to have to take a close look at how they are currently interacting with their children and recognize their own dysfunctional behavior. For some people, they might see that the pattern of dysfunctional behaviors has been passed down from generation to generation. Perhaps in addition to improving their relationship with their child, they will also be able to improve other relationships in their lives. I highly recommend "Got An Angry Child" by Andrew D. Gibson, PhD, to parents, grandparents and counselors who work with children.

Got An Angry Kid? Parenting Spike: A Seriously Difficult Child
Andrew D. Gibson, PhD
Loving Healing Press (2009)
ISBN 9781932690897
Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (5/09)

Why?: Answers to life’s most important question

As the subtitle of this book says, "why" is one of the most important questions we ask of ourselves. Why is there war? Why do children die? Why are there terrorists? And, because of our own beliefs or the core beliefs passed down for generations, we sometimes struggle to find the answer.

Mandeep Khera, in "Why?," gently encourages us to look within to discover the answers ourselves. Throughout his book, Khera explains many fundamental concepts that often prevent us from going to higher levels of consciousness because of our own mis-understandings.

Through explanations, history, dialog, stories, and charts, Khera explains the beliefs within major religions and the roles they play in society, Destiny, Karma, God, as well as how to communicate with the Divine. He also delves into reincarnation, life beyond earth, and the parallel universe. In the end, Khera gives us "Thirteen Steps to a Contented Life." However, as Khera explains, and I agree with him, we cannot live a contented life unless we fully understand "why" incidents occur and "why" we handle them the way we do.

"Why?" by Mandeep Khera is an important book for those that are struggling with a religion, for those that have the perpetual question of "why?" and for those that want more to life than they have now. Khera’s explanations are very easy to understand and apply to one’s own life. Timely, and well written, "Why?" is one of those books you will refer to when you start doubting yourself, or your beliefs.

Why?: Answers to life’s most important question
Mandeep Khera
AuthorHouse (2008)
ISBN 9781438910307
Reviewed by Irene Watson for Reader Views (5/09)
http://readerviews.com/index.html

A Journey, a Reckoning, and a Miracle

K.J. Fraser’s "A Journey, a Reckoning, and a Miracle" is a bold, brave and beautiful book. If one wanted to get familiar – or more familiar – with the American reality, culture and beliefs of the early 21st century, "A Journey, a Reckoning, and a Miracle" would be a good place to start. A word of warning to the staunch Republicans though – you most probably won’t like the story. But then, denial is a common state of mind nowadays…

"A Journey, a Reckoning, and a Miracle" manages to weave together three seemingly unconnected stories and shows the reader how very interconnected we all really are. The first story follows Lucy, a seventeen-year-old Rapture believer, who’s on a personal quest, or better yet, a pilgrimage. Her intent is to honor the dead, those that died in senseless, violent episodes, such as the Columbine massacre or the Oklahoma City bombing. Joined on and off by friends, old and new, she bravely discovers much more than she set out to. The second story, possibly the most chilling of them, deals with Judith, an Iraq War veteran, who made it home alive, but left behind all four of her limbs as well as her eyesight. With the help of her wonderful family and a special young man, Joseph, Judith rediscovers happiness and finds joy again. The third story introduces us to a fictitious, but eerily familiar George Bush, who at the time of the story is no longer President of his country. Living on his Texas ranch, he is suffering from horrible nightmares. With the help of several very interesting visitors, including Mother Nature, Machiavelli, zombies and more, he slowly realizes his past mistakes, faces the lies and gets ready for apologies and atonement.

"A Journey, a Reckoning, and a Miracle" will remind the reader of the horrors and mistakes of the past, but it will also reinforce one’s belief in the inherent greatness of the United States of America. Above all, it will strike the chord with all those of us who firmly believe that one of the biggest treasures we have here are our people – no matter the race, religious affiliation, age, wealth or any other "defining factor." America is filled with great people – and a few bad apples are not going to spoil this barrel.

Read "A Journey, a Reckoning, and a Miracle" by K.J. Fraser with an open mind – even if you do not agree with all of the observations, you should be able to appreciate the astute observations and the quirky sense of humor. Add to this the bravery displayed by the main characters – yes, ultimately all of the main characters are shown as brave – and you have a clear winner on your hands.

A Journey, a Reckoning, and a Miracle
K.J. Fraser
O Books (2009)
ISBN 9781846942068
Reviewed by Olivera Baumgartner-Jackson for Reader Views (5/09)