Reader Views

Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease Nutrition Desk Reference

Article first published as Book Review: Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease Nutrition Desk Reference Edited by Gerard E. Mullin, Laura E. Matarese and Melissa Palmer on Blogcritics.

In the Preface of “Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease Nutrition Desk Reference,” Dr. Khursheed N. Jeejeebhoy explains “The gastrointestinal tract is concerned with ingesting, digesting, and absorbing nutrients and the liver is a metabolic engine that transforms nutrients, synthesizes plasma protein, and detoxifies bacteria and toxins absorbed from the gut. It is therefore not surprising that gastrointestinal and hepatic diseases have a major impact on the nutritional state of the individual.”

To assist the gastroenterologist, nutritionist or health care provider, the editors compiled expert data from contributors to include: Malabsorption, Role of Probiotics, Short Bowel Syndrome, Food Allergies and Intolerance, Nutritional Guidelines for Liver Diseases, Inflammatory Bowel Disease, and a whole gamut of other issues prevalent in our society such as Eating Disorders and Obesity. Each contributor gives an introduction, explains and defines the disease, provides protocols, summaries, and lists references.

Although “Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease Nutrition Desk Reference” is geared toward the health care provider, I believe the data presented is simple enough for a lay person experiencing any of the gastrointestinal or liver issues to find solace in the information presented. As well, the knowledge would assist the patient to make an informed decision on alternatives provided by the practitioner. I believe this reference is concise, thorough, and gives the reader an inclusive indication of issues at hand as well as understanding of possibilities and healing methods.


Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease Nutrition Desk Reference
Edited by Gerard E. Mullin, Laura E. Matarese and Melissa Palmer
CRC Press (2011)
ISBN 9781439812648
Reviewed by Irene Watson for Reader Views (4/12)

Food and Nutrients in Disease Management

Article first published as Book Review: Food and Nutrients in Disease Management, Edited by Ingrid Kohlstadt on Blogcritics.

In the Preface of “Food and Nutrients in Disease Management,” Ingrid Kohlstadt writes “Food and nutrients are the original medicine. They are the molecules of biochemistry, physiology, and immunology, and the shoulders on which modern medicine stands.” But, she also states “In recent decades food and medicine has taken divergent paths. Food has become bereft of nutrients, and modern medicine has sought to heal with technical advances and initially seem dazzlingly more powerful than food."” Given this concept, Kohlstadt compiled data from scientists and doctors to “help physicians reunite food and medicine in clinical practice.” The bottom line is to help the patient heal in the healthiest approach, which may not be using chemical-based drugs.

Areas covered in “Food and Nutrients in Disease Management” are in sections: Disorders of the Ears, Eyes, Nose, and Throat; Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Diseases; Gastrointestinal Diseases; Endocrine and Dermatologic Diseases; Renal Diseases, Neurologic and Psychiatric Disorders; Musculoskeletal and Soft Tissues Disorders, Neoplasms; and, Reproductive Health. Each section has data presented by the experts plus a summary and references. As well, for example, the Gastrointestinal Diseases section covers gastroesophageal reflux disease, peptic ulcer disease, viral hepatitis and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, and, food reactivates.

Considering gastroesophageal reflux disease is on the rise in our society, I was interested in knowing the adverse affects of drug treatment. As I suspected, “proton pump inhibitors [PPI] are currently the third top-selling drugs in American in a $252 billion drug market ... [and] ‘Over-the-counter antacids including Tums, Rolaids, and Maalox account for $1 billion annual sales.’ People want an easy fix rather than using food and nutrient treatments for the disease. According to Mark Hyman, M.D. PPIs may also increase the risk of gastric cancer...gastric polyps, community-acquired pneumonia, and pediatric pneumonia and gastroenteritis.” Hyman suggests elimination of dietary triggers and using a food allergy elimination diet.

Although “Food and Nutrients in Disease Management,” edited by Ingrid Kohlstadt, is geared toward the physician, this book would be of utmost importance for nutritionists and anyone working in the alternative health field. As well, for a patient of any of the diseases mentioned, this book would give clarity and direction of using food as a healing mechanism. Of course, self-diagnosis is discouraged but taking this book to your primary care physician or specialist in the field of your disease to have him or her concur with your decision would be advisable. This could be one of the most important books for your library.


Food and Nutrients in Disease Management
Edited by Ingrid Kohlstadt
CRC Press (2009)
ISBN 9781420067620
Reviewed by Irene Watson for Reader Views (4/12)

Idea-Links: The New Creativity

Article first published as Book Review: Idea-Links: The New Creativity by Jim Link on Blogcritics.

Author Jim Link’s bio reveals that his fascination with ideas began as a child when he would invent new products in his head, then create and record commercials for them on an old tape recorder he found in the basement. His roots firmly planted in creativity, he has spent his entire career growing his personal creative philosophy – one which contends that creativity is not-a-hard to define characteristic of born “creative types,” but, rather, simply a skill-based, process that anyone can execute. In his new book, “Idea-Links: The New Creativity,” Link says, “This book is about making you steadily more creative over time.”

Although the book mentions the benefits of improved creativity in regard to one’s personal life, Link is clearly focused on increasing creative skills in the context of the work place. “Idea-Links” is a self-help business book. It’s the kind of book a company might purchase in bulk to develop its middle management employees; typically, it’s the kind of book only the most self-directed, motivated employees would choose to read on their own. For readers who are pro-actively seeking to grow their creative skills, the book has much to offer, particularly if one’s knowledge of the subject is limited.

One of the most appealing aspects of “Idea-Links” is the author’s clear, concise and easy to follow writing style. The same holds true for Link’s content organization. At the outset, he challenges the commonly held belief that some people are inherently creative and come complete with the traits and behavioral style and appearance that our society attributes to being “creative.” Content is then presented in two parts. Parts one and two explore what Link believes are two core creative concepts: amassing more creative ideas in your brain and what Link calls “creative reframing – restating problems in multiple ways or asking questions to bring into view different idea-links or ideas.” Part three focuses on planning your success through the incorporation of these core concepts into your everyday thinking and behavior.

In general, I agree with Jim Link on what I believe are the important aspects of improving one’s creative thinking and creative problem-solving skills. Perhaps the most significant contribution Link makes to the body of writing on the subject of creativity is that long-term, everyday creativity is fueled by a rich and diverse knowledge and experience base. But I do take exception to his claim that his new creativity is “surprising and simple.” “Idea-Links” does take a somewhat different approach to the task of improving your creativity, using an efficient set of tools and techniques, but nothing here is truly new or surprising. And as for creativity being simple, many would contend it’s not. In my opinion, exceptional creativity and its execution are among the most difficult performances we can undertake.

Despite my disparate views, my opinion is that “Idea-Links: The New Creativity” is a useful source of actionable information for those who believe that they do not have creative abilities. But one thing the reader should not expect from the book is an explanation of just how Jim Link discovered his creativity in the basement at a very young age. That’s the enigma of creativity.


Idea-Links: The New Creativity
Jim Link
Beaver’s Pond Press (2012)
ISBN 9781592982752
Reviewed by Joseph Yurt for Reader Views (4/12)

 

 

Bob Hines: National Wildlife Artist

“Bob Hines: National Wildlife Artist” is the biography of artist Bob Hines. Never heard of him? Me neither. But as an artist I was curious to find out how someone gets such a great job title as “National Wildlife Artist.” The story of Bob Hines’ life, as told by John D. Juriga, is the story of a man who was in the right place at the right time and didn’t let opportunity pass him by. He was a man full of confidence, determination, and talent.

Researching and writing a biography must be a hard task, especially when it is about someone as little well known as Bob Hines. But John D. Juriga took this job seriously and wrote a great book full of details. John’s passion for writing matches Bob’s passion for art. He dove into government personnel records with gusto and came up with tidbits of personality that added greatly to the story and provided a well-rounded vision of Hines’ character.

This isn’t just the story of an artist though. Juriga writes about the dawn of the wildlife conservation movement and how Hines was involved with this effort along with key people such as Rachel Carson. Hines was instrumental in bringing the conservation movement into the public eye through the national Duck Stamp Contest.

I recommend this biography to anyone interested in wildlife art or wildlife conservation. It is an inspiring story about a man living the dream of so many artists, making a full-time living at his art. Plus the book includes many beautiful black and white and color illustrations by Bob Hines. If you don’t know who Bob Hines is, you should get to know him through “Bob Hines: National Wildlife Artist” by John D. Juriga.


Bob Hines: National Wildlife Artist
John D. Juriga
Beaver’s Pond Press (2012)
ISBN 9781592984404
Reviewed by April Sullivan for Reader Views (4/12)

Island Shifters: Book One: An Oath of the Blood

Article first published as Book Review: Island Shifters: Book One: An Oath of the Blood by Valerie Zambito on Blogcritics.
 
Valerie Zambito introduces readers to a new world of people filled with incredible powers as they unite to stand against an enemy from the past. The tone of “Island Shifters: Book One: An Oath of the Blood” is set perfectly within the first couple of pages as we’re introduced to Beck, a young man determined to not lose against the opponent he’s currently facing. We soon learn his commitment to victory lies with the knowledge that he will never live down the damage to his ego if he doesn’t stand victorious against Kiernan, a girl he has known for years. Unknown to Beck at this time is the knowledge that he and his friends will soon face a more serious danger.
 
Beck and his friends are known as shifters, people with the ability to wield magic. While there was a time when this was viewed as a gift, now it’s seen as more of a disease. By the random act of being born a shifter, a person is brought into the world owing a debt that must be repaid, and there are no excuses for not fulfilling this vow of servitude that requires all shifters to become defenders of the realm. However, an ancient evil has resurfaced and the role of defender takes on a whole new meaning as the heroes soon must make life-or-death decisions that affect everyone in the land.
 
I was swept away by the colorful characters and brisk pacing of the book, almost compelled to keep turning the pages as Zambito’s action-packed story carried me along. Beck, Kiernan, Rogan, and Airron are distinct characters that work equally as well together, or on their own, and I enjoyed seeing the camaraderie between the childhood friends as they supported each other through the challenges they faced. I was especially interested in Kiernan’s story as her history seemed to be the most detailed.
 
I’m a firm believer in the adage that a hero (or heroes) can only be as good as the villains they face, and Adrian Ravener, along with his sister Avalon, are the epitome of evil. It’s rare that I have so much fun with reading a story from the villain’s perspective but Adrian’s hunger for revenge and almost limitless power makes him an interesting character to follow.
 
Another thing I enjoyed was the fact that the author made sure to incorporate rules within the ability of wielding magic. Both the heroes and the villains might seem like unstoppable gods at first glance but power comes with a price and it was interesting to see how the limitations of each shifter’s abilities were used to help increase the drama and drive the story forward, rather than provide a quick-fix to problems that arose.

Anyone who enjoys action-packed fantasy with an ensemble of colorful and interesting characters will enjoy reading “Island Shifters: Book One: An Oath of the Blood.”


Island Shifters: Book One: An Oath of the Blood
Valerie Zambito
Valerie Zambito (2011)
ISBN 9780615495033
Reviewed by Marty Shaw for Reader Views (11/11)

We’re Eating What?: A Memoir, Recipes, and How-To-Guide from America's Longest-Running Gourmet Group

Article first published as Book Review: We're Eating What?: A Memoir, Recipes, and How-To-Guide from America's Longest-Running Gourmet Group by Shirley Law Jacobus on Blogcritics.

When I picked up Shirley Law Jacobus’ “We’re Eating What?,” I immediately got really intrigued by its subtitle. “A Memoir, Recipes, and How-To-Guide from America’s Longest-Running Gourmet Group” sounded quite ambitious, and definitely interesting. Being quite a foodie myself, and not ashamed of admitting it, I am always curious about the path other people have taken in their discoveries of new culinary delights.

The story Shirley Law Jacobus wove in this book is a fascinating and deeply personal one, dealing with so much more than just the gourmet aspects of the group that was founded nearly 40 years ago. The reader gets to know a diverse cast of characters, most of which remained a constant for the entire time the group has been in existence, and follow them through life’s ups and downs, personal triumphs and tragedies, and all manner of changes. In addition to those stories, the reader is treated to description of dinners, some way more delicious than others, as well as many recipes guaranteed to inspire and rouse curiosity. If this book truly awakens a strong desire to experience something similar, Shirley Law Jacobus also includes a well-thought-out and helpful how-to guide on what to consider if one wishes to establish a similar dining group. Her many decades of experience clearly shine through in that part; I am certain that such a how-to section could prevent a lot of potential problems for any similar group.

The parts that I enjoyed the most were the ones dealing with the actual food, its sourcing and challenges in preparing it – and sometimes eating the less successful results. Possibly the most fascinating part for me was the description of the culinary landscape and the most common foods in the U.S. back in the 1970s, which was vastly different from what we ate in Europe during that same period of time. Such cultural tidbits always intrigue me, and “We’re Eating What?” was jam-packed with them. At the same time I had to chuckle out loud a few times at things such as a “German wienerschnitzel,” imaging the faces of the Viennese if they ever stumbled upon this reference.

While I truly appreciate the memoir portion of this story, particularly in view of courage it had to take to describe all of the tragedies that happened to the author herself as well as the other group members, I simply did not find it particularly interesting, and a lot of those minutiae slowed down the flow of the narrative and made it somewhat tedious to read. I would have preferred more recipes and fewer references to weddings, visits to the emergency room or merits of different types of hair goop.

Overall I found “We’re Eating What?” by Shirley Law Jacobus an enjoyable book, and I would recommend it to anybody who is curious about the culinary adventures in the U.S.


We’re Eating What?: A Memoir, Recipes, and How-To-Guide from America's Longest-Running Gourmet Group
Shirley Law Jacobus
PublishAmerica (2011)
ISBN 9781456075187
Reviewed by Olivera Baumgartner-Jackson for Reader Views (3/12)

Acrocanthosaurus: The Bones Of Contention

Article first published as Book Review: Acrocanthosaurus: The Bones Of Contention by Russell Ferrell on Blogcritics.

“Acrocanthosaurus: The Bones of Contention,” by Russell Ferrell, is a story that’s as amazing as the dinosaur bones discovery around which the adventure unfolds. The book is populated by two larger than life heroes along with a cast of sharply drawn characters from the worlds of paleontology, politics, government, corporations, and contract law. Greed, corruption and dishonesty abound. And like all riveting tales, there are twists and turns, and an unexpected surprise: “Acrocanthosaurus: The Bones of Contention” is no tall tale, it’s a true story.

Simply put, Ferrell describes the book as “basically about nature, a dinosaur discovery and excavation, and the struggles of the book’s two heroes in the aftermath of the discovery.” In fact, this book is a meticulously researched, historical account of what the author contends, and his research would seem to support, is “one of the greatest achievements of paleontological history.” Given both the breadth and importance of the historical and scientific aspects of the story, the author has actually created two versions of the book. This is a review of the version which concentrates more on history. The second version focuses more on the paleontological science of the event.

The story is anchored not by the dinosaur, but rather by its two larger than life, colorful heroes Cephis Hall, the Arkansas hillbilly, and Sid Love, a Choctaw Indian. Hall is the central figure of the story. In the context of today’s modern naturalist and environmentalist model, Cephis himself is an anachronism. He is a classic, old-timey nature guide, who entertains school children and adults with the stories, legend and lore, and magic of the natural world. He and Sid are vestiges of a vanishing breed of American naturalist adventurers, dinosaurs like the one they seek imbedded in the earth. Ferrell’s portrait of Cephis Hall is rich and romantic. 

This book is a perfect project match for Ferrell. He is thoroughly familiar with the region of the country in which the story unfolds. He’s an historical writer and former school history and science teacher. And, he has a self-acknowledged bias against the banking and legal professions, and big, multinational companies. This attribute provides especially timely and relevant content in view of the state of current affairs in America and throughout the world. However, these same match-up strengths are also the source of flaws in the book’s manuscript. Some readers may feel that Ferrell “the teacher” is giving them more history and science than they need. Others might feel that there are too many insignificant, anecdotal digressions. But despite these instances, Ferrell is above all a consummate storyteller who always manages to get his yarn back on track and keep the story moving forward at an engaging pace.

Russell Ferrell’s writing infuses “Acrocanthosaurus: The Bones of Contention” with a “tall tale” quality that makes the book an interesting and entertaining read.  Its quirky personality makes it a good choice for anyone who is an avid reader of modern, historical non-fiction.


Acrocanthosaurus: The Bones Of Contention
Russell Ferrell
Historical Dimensions (2011)
ISBN 9780615438146
Reviewed by Joseph Yurt for ReaderViews (11/11)

One Hand Killing (An Alex Sullivan Zen Mystery)

Article first published as eBook Review: One Hand Killing (An Alex Sullivan Zen Mystery) by Nancy O'Hara on Blogcritics.

When Alex, a New York City Detective, plans a trip to visit her Zen Master Setsu Roshi at his monastery retreat, she is looking forward to taking a break from her busy city life and the tough cases that she has to handle. Using special sensory skills that she has developed from her years of Zen training to help solve hard cases has its pluses, but at times it also can be somewhat draining. Going to the monastery gives Alex a chance to distance herself from the stress of her job and to get mentally refreshed. Little does she know that she is about to be involved with one of the biggest cases of her life because it involves her friends at her retreat.

Shortly after Alex arrives at the monastery, people start disappearing and bodies start appearing. There are three murders and one mutilated cat. Each situation seems to be connected with someone who has knowledge of Zen koans, who is also leaving a specific message. This leads Alex to suspect some of the people whom she is closest to, even her Zen Master Roshi. Alex has heard rumors about Roshi having a colorful past and this causes her to contemplate how true of a master he really is. Because the monastery also houses people with criminal backgrounds, Alex doesn’t limit her suspicions to him. When law enforcement agencies get involved Alex is allowed to assist with doing some investigative work. Her knowledge of the people and their special ways helps give some insight to the outsiders.

The further Alex goes into the investigation, the more unsavory history she uncovers, including information about people who were formerly or are currently involved with her Zen master. She also learns that Roshi is being blackmailed. Striving to solve this case and help keep both herself and those around her safe while still enjoying some retreat time is very taxing and consuming, but Alex is compelled to help. As she gets closer to finding the truth, she also gains some greater insight into herself.

I really enjoyed reading “One Hand Killing,” which is the first novel in the Alex Sullivan Zen Mystery series. I look forward to finding out what Nancy O’Hara has in store for Alex in the future. I also found the premise to the story to be incredibly unique. I appreciated that the author used her own knowledge of Zen to add depth and credibility to the story. As I read, I found myself admiring this novel on two levels. The first was that it is a creatively written mystery with a unique plot and well-developed characters. The second aspect that I enjoyed is that the Zen focus isn’t just on the story, but it also offers many thought-provoking ideas with which I can apply to my own life. I also could really relate to the main character’s dilemma about having doubts about being able to trust her spiritual advisor. This is something very similar to a situation that I personally dealt with recently and I was really interested in seeing how the author resolved it. I suspect that there will be many other readers that will relate to this. “One Hand Killing” is highly recommended reading.


One Hand Killing (An Alex Sullivan Zen Mystery)
Nancy O’Hara
Nancy O’Hara (2012)
ISBN 9780984893805
Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (2/12)

Redemption (eBook)

Article first published as eBook Review: Redemption by Olivia Duncan Craig on Blogcritics.

In “Redemption” by Olivia Duncan Craig, Devin Blair is the Vice President of Mergers and Acquisition for Geo Assets, which is one of the universe’s largest interplanetary mining companies. He is also the owner’s son. Being the heir to the owner keeps people at a distance from him. He has a few close friends, but at his core he is lonely. Having had his heart ripped to pieces by an ex-wife, Devin decides to take the advice of a friend and do something drastic. He contacts Redemption Unlimited which provides high-end bond mates. Wanting someone to act in the capacity as personal assistant and companion, Devin decides that he doesn’t want this person to be short term so he offers a contract for twenty years. Even in the future, twenty years is still longer than most marriages.

When Devin meets Jason who has applied to be a bond mate, he is impressed. Not only is Jason incredibly gorgeous and sexy, but he also has a brain to go with his body. Jason is also a very loyal person. He has chosen to step out of his current life and commit to this relationship because he needs the funds to help his family escape from an extremely dangerous situation. It is also Jason’s innate sense of loyalty that makes it hard from him to keep an emotional distance from Devin. When they first enter into their contract, he begins to fall for him. Redemption Unlimited advises against emotional entanglements since they complicate matters and the relationship is only supposed to be temporary, even if it is twenty years.

Because of the terms of their agreement, both men find themselves struggling to keep their feelings separate. In spite of this, they share some incredible sexual chemistry which they totally enjoy taking advantage of. Their true feelings are tested when Jason’s past manages to catch up with him. This puts the lives of both men in danger. Secrets have to be revealed and decisions have to be made about where they are going to go from there.

“Redemption” is a well written futuristic erotic romance with a ton of suspense mixed in. Setting the story in the future is an added bonus because it makes things seem much more interesting as far as technology is involved. As far as the romantic part goes, not much has been changed as to how most relationships are today. Well, except for the bond mate aspect. But having characters who have dealt with love and loss makes them seem totally realistic, not matter what era the story would take place in. They also harbor their own doubts and insecurities in spite of their attraction and apparent successes. It is this aspect of the story that I found to be timeless. The erotic scenes that take place between the two men are very well described and not for those who have issues with homosexual sex. Readers who enjoy futuristic romances will love “Redemption” by Olivia Duncan Craig.


Redemption (eBook)
Olivia Duncan Craig
ODC Press (2012)
ISBN 9780985400606
Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (4/12)

 

 

Sagaria

“Sagaria” by John Dahlgren is the story of Sagandran Sacks, a teenage boy who suddenly finds himself holding the fate of the Earth and two other worlds in his hands.  When Sagandran went on a trip to his grandfather’s house, he just expected a normal trip.  But when his grandfather goes missing after telling Sagandran a tale about a portal to another world, Sagandran went exploring and found a whole new world, no, two new worlds of adventure awaiting him.  Will Sagandran ever see his grandfather again?

After entering Sagaria via an old well, Sagandran soon made company with a talking rat called Flip, a snotty princess named Perima, a frog knight called Sir Tombin, and a forgetful old wizard named Samzing.  With this band of oddballs from every corner of Sagaria, Sagandran learned that he was in possession of a powerful crystal that could hold the future of Earth and two other worlds, Sagaria included.  But Sagandran also knew that he had to save his grandfather.  So he went to the Shadow World to face the evil sorcerer Arkanamon and free his grandfather from the necromancer’s clutches.  Will Sagandran be able to defeat Arkanamon and save the world?

The book was a fun but rather long read weighing in at 582 pages.  One of the few things that I didn’t like about this book versus others like it was that it didn’t have a strong villain.  Also, the battle at the end of the book wasn’t as much a battle as it was a beat up the villain party.  Other than this, the book was rather entertaining and offered some good heroes such as a perpetually grumpy rat and a human-sized frog knight.

I would recommend this book to people who like adventure and fantasy books.  There is a prequel book titled “The Tides of Avarice: A Sagaria Legend” that was a very enjoyable read.  “Sagaria” by John Dahlgren book was a moderately engrossing read, but not always as interesting as the prequel.


Sagaria
John Dahlgren
Didier Millet, Csi (2011)
ISBN 9789814260527
Reviewed by Ben Weldon (age 14) for Reader Views (4/12)