Atomic Habits by James Clear

I listened to the unabridged audio version of Atomic Habits by James Clear, which was nicely narrated by the author. Atomic Habits was my last read for the month of September.

I've been meaning to read Atomic Habits for quite awhile, but I had been putting it off for other reads instead. 

Then, about six weeks ago, a Ukrainian woman living in Kyiv, Ukraine that I am an English buddy with, asked me to read Atomic Habits with her. We will be discussing this book via video chat this upcoming week.

I really enjoyed reading Atomic Habits by James Clear. This work of nonfiction about how to change ones habits was very engaging and straightforward. There are four laws to follow to enact changing ones habits. The laws themselves are broken down into easy to follow steps that seem very doable. I also like the fact that there are several pdf downloadable worksheets to help facilitate changing ones own habits. 

Below is the publisher's summary for Atomic Habits by James Clear from the Goodreads website:

No matter your goals, Atomic Habits offers a proven framework for improving—every day. James Clear, one of the world's leading experts on habit formation, reveals practical strategies that will teach you exactly how to form good habits, break bad ones, and master the tiny behaviors that lead to remarkable results.

If you're having trouble changing your habits, the problem isn't you. The problem is your system. Bad habits repeat themselves again and again not because you don't want to change, but because you have the wrong system for change. You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems. Here, you'll get a proven system that can take you to new heights.

Clear is known for his ability to distill complex topics into simple behaviors that can be easily applied to daily life and work. Here, he draws on the most proven ideas from biology, psychology, and neuroscience to create an easy-to-understand guide for making good habits inevitable and bad habits impossible. Along the way, readers will be inspired and entertained with true stories from Olympic gold medalists, award-winning artists, business leaders, life-saving physicians, and star comedians who have used the science of small habits to master their craft and vault to the top of their field.

Learn how to:
- Make time for new habits (even when life gets crazy);
- Overcome a lack of motivation and willpower;
- Design your environment to make success easier;
- Get back on track when you fall off course;
...and much more.

Atomic Habits will reshape the way you think about progress and success, and give you the tools and strategies you need to transform your habits--whether you are a team looking to win a championship, an organization hoping to redefine an industry, or simply an individual who wishes to quit smoking, lose weight, reduce stress, or achieve any other goal.

I am giving Atomic Habits by James Clear a rating of 5 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!!

Stoicism by Tony Bennis

I originally download the unabridged audio version of Stoicism by Tony Bennis from Chirp Books around 3 to 4 years ago. However, Chirp Books no longer seems to carry this audiobook title for whatever reason!

I meant to initially listen to Stoicism by Tony Bennis when I first purchased it 3 to 4 years ago, but I kept putting it off and reading other books instead. I am into philosophy and also self-help books that will hopefully inspire change within. Since stoicism is an ancient philosophy, I figured learning more about stoicism may help give me a new perspective on how to inspire change within vs. a more current psychologically based self-help based book.

Stoicism by Tony Bennis is a quick read... Or in my case, a quick listen as the audio edition is less than four hours in length. Stoicism by Tony Bennis is a beginner's overview of stoicism for the uninitiated who desires to to gain basic knowledge about stoicism to hel facilitate practical change. I found this book to be a nice introduction to stoicism that I may refer back to repeatedly as needed. There are also exercises to complete at the end of each chapter to solidify the points made within each chapter. I look forward to exploring more in depth books about stoicism in the future.

Below is the summary for Stoicism by Tony Bennis from Bookshop.org:

Are the troubles of modern life getting to you?

The solution to your troubles is contained in the wisdom of the ancients.

Stoicism is a philosophy that was started in Ancient Greece, but this two-thousand-year-old worldview is enjoying a modern rebirth. All across the globe, people are coming to appreciate the timeless wisdom of Stoicism.

You don't have to suffer. You may not be able to control the path your life will take, but Stoicism teaches that you can control the way you see life. By shifting your way of thinking you can eliminate unnecessary suffering, reshape your thought patterns, and achieve that sense of calm you've always wanted.

In this book, you will find all of the information you need to understand Stoic thought and put it into action in your life.

• Start by understanding what Stoicism is and isn't. Once you understand the basic concepts you'll learn the history of this storied Philosophy. From there you will build up your understanding while learning how to put each new concept into practice.

• Gain insight into the emotions that can keep you from living the life that you want to lead. Find out how to master your heart by feeding positive emotions while starving the negative.

• Learn a strategy for success that has helped some of history's greatest heroes to triumph in the face of tragedy. When you learn to see obstacles as opportunities you can rise to the top while others fall behind.

• Find out how to prepare yourself for any challenge life may hand you. Don't wait for tragedy to strike before you learn how to handle it. Start building the skills that will allow you to weather any storm.

• Take steps today to change your life. This isn't a self-help book for you to read and forget, it calls for real action that will create real results.

All throughout the book, you will find a treasure trove of Stoic wisdom in the form of quotes from history's greatest Stoic thinkers. Learn the lessons taught by history's greatest teachers, passed onto you in plain English.

You don't have to live a life ruled by stress and worry. No matter who you are, you can learn how to master your own mind and retake control of your life.

The power to change is inside of you, the ancient secrets of Stoicism will show you how to unlock your full potential.

I am giving giving Stoicism by Tony Bennis a rating of 3 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!!

Me & Patsy Kickin' Up Dust: My Friendship With Patsy Cline by Loretta Lynn

 

I've had Me & Patsy Kickin' Up Dust: My Friendship With Patsy Cline by Loretta Lynn on my reading wishlist for quite a while. It's the 35th book I've read this year. I'm happy to have finally read Me & Patsy Kickin' Up Dust: My Friendship With Patsy Cline.

I remember first learning about Loretta Lynn when I watched the movie, 'A Coal Miner's Daughter', starring Sissy Spacek and Tommy Lee Jones with my parents when the movie first came out in 1980. I'm not a huge country western music fan, but I did enjoy the songs from this movie. 

Later in life, I became quite a Patsy Cline fan. I love her songs/singing to this day. What a beautiful voice Patsy Cline had. She died way too young. When Loretta Lynn wrote a memoir about their friendship, I couldn't resist reading Me & Patsy Kickin' Up Dust: My Friendship With Patsy Cline.

Below is the publisher's summary for Me & Patsy Kickin' Up Dust: My Friendship With Patsy Cline by Loretta Lynn I discovered on the Goodreads website:

Loretta Lynn and the late Patsy Cline are legends--country icons and sisters of the heart. For the first time ever Loretta tells their story: a celebration of their music and their relationship up until Patsy's tragic and untimely death.

Full of laughter and tears, this eye-opening, heartwarming memoir paints a picture of two stubborn, spirited country gals who'd be damned if they'd let men or convention tell them how to be. Set in the heady streets of the 1960s South, this nostalgia ride shows how Nashville blossomed into the city of music it is today. Tender and fierce, Me & Patsy Kickin' Up Dust is an up-close-and-personal portrait of a friendship that defined a generation and changed country music indelibly--and a meditation on love, loss and legacy.

I am giving Me & Patsy Kickin' Up Dust: My Friendship With Patsy Cline by Loretta Lynn a rating of 4 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!!

Pageboy by Elliot Page

 

With June being Pride Month, I wanted to make sure and read a book that falls into the LGBTQIA+ category this month.

I chose to listen. to the unabridged audio version of Pageboy by Elliot Page, which is narrated by the author. I've had Pageboy on my reading wishlist for a while, so I'm pleased to have finally read it.

Elliot Page is a transgender, male actor. I first became aware of Elliot Page when he was female actress, Ellen Page. I remember watching Ellen Page in the movie, 'Hard Candy', with my husband and we enjoyed this movie. I know that Elliot Page has acted in several movies, but I've only watched two of them. 

I'm always curious about the lives of other people and as a cis gender, heterosexual woman, I definitely am up for learning more about the LGBTQIA+ community.

I found it interesting to learn about Elliot Page's background and how he determined he was transgender. What did his journey to becoming a transgender man look like? Gender dysphoria, self-harm, and an eating disorder were all discussed by Elliot Page in his memoir. Also, home life split between divorced parents wasn't easy for Elliot Page growing up either. His dad and step-mother weren't ideal parents as described by the author. Elliot Page also talks about his acting career and romantic relationships too.

Below is the publisher's summary for Pageboy by Elliot Page found on the Goodreads website:

Pageboy is a groundbreaking coming-of-age memoir from the Academy Award-nominated actor Elliot Page. A generation-defining actor and one of the most famous trans advocates of our time, Elliot will now be known as an uncommon literary talent, as he shares never-before-heard details and intimate interrogations on gender, love, mental health, relationships, and Hollywood.

I am giving Pageboy by Elliot Page a rating of 3 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!!!

Delta Lady by Rita Coolidge

 

I listened to the unabridged audio version of Delta Lady by Rita Coolidge, which is narrated by the author herself.

I had Delta Lady on my reading wishlist for quite a while before listening to it during a recent trip to Las Vegas. I'm happy I finally listened to this memoir as I learned a lot about Rita Coolidge's life. I never realized she was married to Kris Kristofferson, who was the love of her life. They had a daughter together before their marriage dissolved. 

I also learned that Rita Coolidge's older sister, Priscilla, was married to journalist, Ed Bradley! Sadly, Priscilla was later killed by her third husband in a murder/suicide back in 2014. 

Of course, I learned a lot about about Rita Coolidge's music career, which is interesting if you liked her music.

Below is the publisher's summary for Delta Lady by Rita Coolidge discovered on the Chirp website:

The two-time Grammy Award-winning singer and songwriter bares her heart and soul in this intimate memoir, a story of music, stardom, love, family, heritage, and resilience.

She inspired songs—Leon Russell wrote “A Song for You” and “Delta Lady” for her, Stephen Stills wrote “Cherokee.” She co-wrote songs—“Superstar” and the piano coda to “Layla,” uncredited. She sang backup for Eric Clapton, Joe Cocker, and Stills, before finding fame as a solo artist with such hits as “We're All Alone” and “(Your Love Has Lifted Me) Higher and Higher.” Following her story from Lafayette, Tennessee to becoming one of the most sought after rock vocalists in LA in the 1970s, Delta Lady chronicles Rita Coolidge’s fascinating journey throughout the ’60s-’70s pop/rock universe.

A muse to some of the twentieth century’s most influential rock musicians, she broke hearts, and broke up bands. Her relationship with drummer Jim Gordon took a violent turn during the legendary 1970 Mad Dogs & Englishmen tour; David Crosby maintained that her triangle with Stills and Graham Nash was the last straw for the group. Her volatile six-year marriage to Kris Kristofferson yielded two Grammys, a daughter, and one of the Baby Boom generation’s epic love stories. Throughout it all, her strength, resilience, and inner and outer beauty—along with her strong sense of heritage and devotion to her family—helped her to not only survive, but thrive. Co-written with best-selling author Michael Walker, Delta Lady is a rich, deeply personal memoir that offers a front row seat to an iconic era, and illuminates the life of an artist whose career has helped shape modern American culture.

I am giving Delta Lady by Rita Coolidge a rating of 3 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!

Kent State: Four Dead in Ohio by Derf Backderf

I began reading the ebook edition of Kent State: Four Dead in Ohio by Derf Backderf on May 4th, which coincidentally marked the 56th anniversary of the Kent State Massacre. 

Kent State: Four Dead in Ohio by Derf Backderf is a work of nonfiction, written in graphic form, which I thoroughly enjoyed reading, because it contains visual imagery along with written details about the Kent State Massacre. This gives readers the perfect overview regarding the events leading up to the Kent State Massacre, the event itself, and the eventual aftermath without giving overwhelming amounts of information to the reader to absorb and digest.

The artwork and writing are both well done for Kent State: Four Dead in Ohio by Derf Backderf. Kudos to Derf Backderf for all of his thorough research into the Kent State Massacre, which he details at the end of his book along with copious footnotes. 

Kent State: Four Dead in Ohio by Derf Backderf is riveting for history buffs wanting to learn more about the details of the Kent State Massacre and 

My favorite quote from Kent State: Four Dead in Ohio by Derf Backderf is: "No shooter, official, or politician is held accountable for the Kent State shootings." I found this deplorable. Four unarmed students died and nine unarmed students were seriously injured by the National Guard during the Kent State Massacre. These deaths and injuries should have never happened based on what I read in this book. Derf Backderf's book describes the epic f*uk up on the part of the politicians, military, other government entities for their part in the Kent State Massacre.

Below is the publisher's summary for Kent State: Four Dead in Ohio by Derf Backderf:

"Derf Backderf takes us back to the age of the Vietnam War, Richard Nixon, Woodstock, and the Cold War and explores, in words and images, a scene of tragedy: the campus of Kent State University, where National Guard Troops attacked unarmed protestors and killed four students (Allison Beth Krause, age 19, Jeffrey Glenn Miller, age 20, Sandra Lee Scheuer, age 20, and William Knox Schroeder, age 19).

On May 4, 1970, the Ohio National Guard gunned down unarmed college students protesting the Vietnam War at Kent State University. In a deadly barrage of 67 shots, four students were killed and nine shot and wounded. It was the day America turned guns on its own children—a shocking event burned into our national memory.

The fatal shootings triggered immediate and massive outrage on campuses around the country. More than four million students participated in organized walkouts at hundreds of universities, colleges, and high schools, the largest student strike in the history of the United States at that time. It was a day that shocked the nation and helped turn the tide of public opinion against America’s war in Vietnam.

A few days prior, 10-year-old Derf Backderf saw those same guardsmen patrolling his nearby hometown, sent in by the governor to crush a trucker strike.

Using the journalism skills he employed on My Friend Dahmer and Trashed, Backderf has conducted extensive interviews and research to explore the lives of these four young people and the events of those four days in May, when the country seemed on the brink of tearing apart.

Kent State: Four Dead in Ohio is a moving and troubling story about the bitter price of dissent—as relevant today as it was in 1970."

I am giving Kent State: Four Dead in Ohio by Derf Backderf a rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!!

Dear Dad: Growing Up with a Parent in Prison—and How We Stayed Connected by Jay Jay Patton

 

I randomly found the ebook edition for Dear Dad: Growing Up with a Parent in Prison—and How We Stayed Connected by Jay Jay Patton while searching Hoopla's comic book offerings. The title and topic caught my attention right away. I have never had a parent incarcerated in prison. So, the thought of how an incarcerated parent stays in touch with their children (or vice versa) while serving time in prison never crossed my mind.

I wanted to learn more about this topic, so I decided to read Dear Dad: Growing Up with a Parent in Prison—and How We Stayed Connected by Jay Jay Patton. I'm so glad that I did. I started and finished reading Dear Dad in one day as it is a quick read due to it being written in comic book form. Dear Dad is a work of nonfiction and is also a memoir. 

Jay Jay Patton writes about life without having a father around for a number of years during her childhood due to the fact that her father was serving time in prison. They stayed in touch via letters. Jay Jay's father learns computer coding while in prison. Once released from prison, Jay Jay and her family move back in together with her father as a family unit. It's then Jay Jay's father begins to work as a computer coder. Jay Jay herself is smart in both math and science like her father. Jay Jay eventually learns coding herself from her father and the two of them create an app to help connect children with their incarcerated parents. This way, families can stay in touch with the parent who is serving time in prison.

I like this book and how Jay Jay and her father stay connected while he was in prison through letter writing. I also liked how they bonded afterwards through computer coding when Jay Jay's father was released from prison. They used their computer coding skills to create an app to help others stay more easily connected with their children  when a parent (or parents) are in prison. However, Dear Dad isn't perfect. I felt like there were gaps in the timeframe or things that would have been relevant information to share about Jay Jay's life. Plus, the artwork was good, but not great.

Below is the publisher's summary for Dear Dad: Growing Up with a Parent in Prison—and How We Stayed Connected by Jay Jay Patton from the Goodreads website:

As far back as nine-year-old Jay Jay Patton can remember, her dad, Antoine, has been in prison. Growing up in Buffalo, New York with her mom and younger brother, she's only visited him twice. Instead the two have sent each other numerous letters. Jay Jay's letters can take weeks or months to reach her dad, and some never even get delivered. What's it going to be like having Dad home?

This powerful coming-of-age sequential-art memoir shows Jay Jay Patton's life of growing up with a dad in and out of prison. The experience led her and her dad to develop a powerful father-daughter bond and create Photo Patch, a life-changing application that connects children to incarcerated parents.

I am giving Dear Dad: Growing Up with a Parent in Prison—and How We Stayed Connected by Jay Jay Patton a rating of 3.5 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!!

Will My Cat Eat My Eyeballs?: Big Questions from Tiny Mortals About Death by Caitlin Doughty

 

I listened to Caitlin Doughty's nonfiction book titled, Smoke Gets in Your Eyes: And Other Lessons from the Crematory back in 2023. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to Smoke Gets in Your Eyes: And Other Lessons from the Crematory as Caitlin Doughty recounts her journey as a mortician. I also enjoyed the fact that Caitlin Doughty narrated her book as well.

With that said, I wanted to read, or rather listen to in this case, another work of nonfiction written by Caitlin Doughty. So, I couldn't resist listening to Will My Cat Eat My Eyeballs?: Big Questions from Tiny Mortals About Death, which is also narrated by the author.

I don't know how Caitlin Doughty does it, but she makes learning unique facts about death fun! I learned a lot of new things about death that I didn't know before by listening to Caitlin Doughty answer 35 questions posed to her by youngsters. Each of the questions were for the most part unique and so were the answers given.

Will My Cat Eat My Eyeballs?: Big Questions from Tiny Mortals About Death by Caitlin Doughty is a quick read, which was right up my alley. I liked the bite sized chunks of information that were presented by the author. It made learning about death feel less morbid if that's possible.

Below is the publisher's summary for Will My Cat Eat My Eyeballs?: Big Questions from Tiny Mortals About Death by Caitlin Doughty from the Goodreads website:

Every day, funeral director Caitlin Doughty receives dozens of questions about death. What would happen to an astronaut’s body if it were pushed out of a space shuttle? Do people poop when they die? Can Grandma have a Viking funeral?

In the tradition of Randall Munroe’s What If ?, Doughty’s new book, Will My Cat Eat My Eyeballs?, blends her scientific understanding of the body and the intriguing history behind common misconceptions about corpses to offer factual, hilarious, and candid answers to thirty-five urgent questions posed by her youngest fans. Readers will learn what happens if you die on an airplane, the best soil for mummifying your dog, and whether or not you can preserve your friend’s skull as a keepsake.

I am giving Will My Cat Eat My Eyeballs?: Big Questions from Tiny Mortals About Death by Caitlin Doughty a rating of 4 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!!

The Beautiful No by Sheri Salata

 

During the height of the pandemic, there were a lot of online/virtual events. The University of Iowa hosted a virtual event titled, Virtual Book Club with Sheri Salata, in November of 2020. I am an alumna of the University of Iowa and also an avid read (of course), so I attended this 45-minute virtual event and enjoyed watching it immensely at the time.

Sheri Salata is a University of Iowa alumna (80BBA) and she also worked as an executive producer for the Oprah Winfrey Show for a number of years. Before attending the Virtual Book Club with Sheri Salata, I'd never heard of Sheri Salata, but after the event I knew I wanted to read her nonfiction book, The Beautiful No.

Despite having The Beautiful No by Sheri Salata on my reading wishlist for almost 6 years, it wasn't until this year that I listened to the unabridged audio version of The Beautiful No, which is nicely narrated by the author. In fact, I finished listening to this book yesterday.

The Beautiful No by Sheri Salata is a work of nonfiction... In fact, it's a memoir. I remember being excited to read The Beautiful No after watching the Virtual Book Club with Sheri Salata. It seemed like Salata's book was the right combination of memoir and also inspirational and self-help book. Yes, The Beautiful No is a memoir. Each chapter is a vignette pertaining to an aspect of Sheri Salata's life, which is well done. 

Yes, Sheri Salata's life story is inspirational, especially her transformation after the Oprah Winfrey Show ended and how she went about transforming her life. BUT, I wouldn't classify The Beautiful No as both a self-help book and memoir like I had envisioned it would be. There are many gems that Sheri Salata shares throughout her book one could use as a guidepost in transforming one's own life. BUT again this books isn't a self-help book, only a memoir. It is an inspirational book though and also gives food for thought on how to improve one's life.

Below is a 45 second book trailer for The Beautiful No by Sheri Salata, which I discovered on YouTube. I'm sharing the book trailer instead of quoting the publisher's written summary of this book.

I am giving The Beautiful No by Sheri Salata a rating of 3.5 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!!!

Mysteries of the Messiah by Rabbi Jason Sobel

 

I first listened to the unabridged audio version of The Rock, the Road, and the Rabbi by Rabbi Jason Sobel and Kathie Lee Gifford, which is wonderfully narrated by Kathie Lee Gifford. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this work of nonfiction and hope to listen to it again.

Ever since listening to The Rock, the Road, and the Rabbi by Rabbi Jason Sobel and Kathie Lee Gifford, I've been meaning to read Mysteries of the Messiah by Rabbi Jason Sobel. This is the year I made this goal happen. 

As a side note, I had a dream earlier this year where my deceased, paternal grandfather wanted me to read Mysteries of the Messiah!! He was a deeply religious man in his later years and also very outspoken. So, when ancestors speak to us in our dreams, perhaps it is wise to sit up and take notice. This dream was another reason to move Mysteries of the Messiah up on my reading list.

How did I like Mysteries of the Messiah by Rabbi Jason Sobel? It's packed with biblical information!! I am not very well versed with regards to any particular religion, so I was a bit overwhelmed by the amount of information presented in this book. I will most likely have to revisit Mysteries of the Messiah a few times before it all sinks in due to the fact that I am not well versed with the bible or other Judeo-Christian texts. Overall, I really liked Mysteries of the Messiah.

I listened to the unabridged audio version of Mysteries of the Messiah, which I felt was passably narrated by Neil Hellegers. My chief complaint regarding the narration of Mysteries of the Messiah is that I felt that Neil Hellegers read this book too quickly.

Below is the publisher's summary for Mysteries of the Messiah by Rabbi Jason Sobel:

Highlighting connections that have been hidden from non-Jewish eyes, Rabbi Jason Sobel pulls back the curtain to shed God's light on the holy scriptures.

Most people do not understand how the Bible fits together—even people of faith. Too many Christians accept half an inheritance in that they are content to embrace merely the New Testament. On the flip side, Jews often experience this by embracing only the Old Testament. But God has an intricate plan and purpose for both.

In Mysteries of the Messiah, Rabbi Jason Sobel, raised in a Jewish home in New Jersey but now a follower of Yeshua, pulls back the curtain to show the many connections in Scripture hidden in plain sight. Known for his emphatic declaration "but there's more!" he guides readers from the story of creation through Revelation to see the passion and purpose of the Messiah, the Torah, and several of the patriarchs and prophets.

God's Word, written by many people over thousands of years, is not a random selection of people and stories, but they have intricate connections. Rabbi Jason connects the dots for readers, helping them see with clarity what God intended.

Also, see the short book trailer below for Mysteries of the Messiah where the author, Rabbi Jason Sobel, plugs his book.

I am giving Mysteries of the Messiah by Rabbi Jason Sobel a rating of 4 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!!

Redbone: The True Story of a Native American Rock Band by Christian Staebler et al.

 

I remember the rock band, Redbone, from the 1970s... And, I remembered them as a one hit wonder for the song, 'Come and Get Your Love'. Little did I know that Redbone actually had many other hits too.

I've had Redbone: The True Story of a Native American Rock Band by Christian Staebler on my reading wishlist for a number of years and finally decided to read the ebook edition this month.

I really enjoyed this comic book/graphic nonfiction book!! Redbone was an all Native American band and they made it big time. I learned not only a lot about the origins of Redbone, but also a lot about Native American history and Native American activism during the 1960s and 1970s. Pat Vegas, a co-founder of Redbone, is a Native American and Native American activist as well.

Below is a book trailer for Redbone: The True Story of a Native American Rock Band by Christian Staebler:

I am giving Redbone: The True Story of a Native American Rock Band by Christian Staebler a rating of 4 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!!

83 Days in Mariupol: A War Diary: A Graphic Novel by Don Brown

 

I am an English language volunteer/tutor for someone living in Ukraine via ENGin. I just started as an English language volunteer/tutor in January of this year and am currently working with a single person online at this time.

I accidentally stumbled across 83 Days in Mariupol: A War Diary: A Graphic Novel by Don Brown by performing an online search through our public library for comics/graphic novels. 

Because I am working with an individual living in Ukraine, who wants to learn to speak English better, I thought it would be a great idea to read this work of nonfiction written in the graphic novel format. So, I checked this ebook out from our public library via Hoopla.

83 Days in Mariupol: A War Diary: A Graphic Novel by Don Brown is geared towards young adults. I found this book to be a quick overview about the conflict/war between Ukraine and Russia as it happened in Mariupol, Ukraine in 2022. 

I wanted to read a book where I could slowly ease myself into learning more about Ukraine. Especially with regards to learning about the history of Ukraine and the conflict/war between Ukraine and Russia. There's a lot of history between both countries and I'm sure there's a lot to learn. But I wanted an easy book to read and understand in order to learn more about Ukraine. 83 Days in Mariupol: A War Diary was a good place to start for me.

I enjoyed the artwork, writing, and overview of the war between Russia and Ukraine as it pertains to Mariupol, Ukraine. The events took place in 2022 and the events were horrific! According to what I read in this book, 90% of Mariupol was destroyed and is still occupied by Russia today.

Below is the publisher's summary for 83 Days in Mariupol: A War Diary: A Graphic Novel by Don Brown from the Goodreads website:

A young adult graphic novel that captures the complexities of the war in Ukraine, focusing on the siege of Mariupol (Feb ’22 – May ’22) and the brave people who stayed to defend their city against Russian forces as well as the resulting effects on global politics.

A city ruined. In once quiet residential streets, two armies battle, driving people into cellars and basements with little food or water. No lights or heat. Dwindling medical supplies. Shells and bullets deliver cruel, random death to the young and old, men, women, and children.

This is Mariupol, a Ukrainian city and early target of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Bordering Russian-occupied territory, the coastal city seemed doomed to a defeat that would come within days, if not hours. Could Mariupol, and Ukraine, survive? As Russian rockets threatened the city, Ukrainians resisted, and with a heroic combination of sacrifice and bravery, the besieged city endured . . . for months. But it all came at a steep cost.

With compassion and his keen journalist’s eye, Sibert Honor creator Don Brown illuminates the horrors of Mariupol and the depredations of its people not seen in the city since World War II. He also shows that outside of Mariupol, the city’s agonies were mirrored by similar events occurring in towns and cities across Ukraine.

83 Days in Mariupol reminds us that the bloody defiance shown at the Alamo, Dunkirk, Leningrad, and Thermopylae isn’t confined to the past but has a violent, modern presence. It is the story of senseless destruction, patriotism, and grit against long odds—a brutal battle whose consequences still reverberate across Ukraine and continue to reshape the global political landscape.

I am giving 83 Days in Mariupol: A War Diary: A Graphic Novel by Don Brown a rating of 4 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading to all!

American Teenager: How Trans Kids Are Surviving Hate and Finding Joy in a Turbulent Era by Nico Lang

 

I listened to the unabridged audio version of American Teenager: How Trans Kids Are Surviving Hate and Finding Joy in a Turbulent Era by Nico Lang and narrated by the author via Hoopla.

American Teenager: How Trans Kids Are Surviving Hate and Finding Joy in a Turbulent Era by Nico Lang is a work of nonfiction and is the March 2026 Online Rainbow Book Club selection.

I liked this work of nonfiction, but didn't love it. The best part of American Teenager for me was that the author focused on the lives of "eight trans and nonbinary teenagers across the country, following their daily triumphs, struggles, and all that encompasses growing up trans in America today." Each teenager came from different backgrounds and each teenager lived in different states. I feel it is important to learn about the lives of other people in order to become more empathic and also to learn about the lives of others to avoid making assumptions about what we think their lives are like.

A couple of the topics that were discussed in American Teenager included gender affirming care and puberty suppressing hormones. I understand the need/importance for individuals to have a body that matches their gender identity and how this mismatch can lead to depression, suicide, etc.... BUT, personally, I am concerned about the long term, negative effects of using puberty suppressing hormones. Especially on prepubescent children. Is it really healthy to suppress puberty through drug therapy? 

I did a quick search on Google and learned that studies on puberty suppressing hormones show that "some studies suggest potential risks to neurodevelopment, such as changes in memory, stress response, and reduced IQ, evidence is not conclusive." (Clinical Advisory Network on Sex and Gender) and "reduced bone mineral density, hot flashes, fatigue, mood fluctuations, headaches, and potential long-term impacts on fertility and growth velocity." (PubMed Central) In other words, more studies need to be done to show the risks and benefits for puberty suppressing hormones. 

Below is the publisher's summary for American Teenager: How Trans Kids Are Surviving Hate and Finding Joy in a Turbulent Era by Nico Lang from Chirp's website:

From an award-winning journalist comes a vivid and moving portrait of eight trans and nonbinary teenagers across the country, following their daily triumphs, struggles, and all that encompasses growing up trans in America today.

Media coverage tends to sensationalize the fight over how trans kids should be allowed to live, but what is incredibly rare are the voices of the people at the heart of this debate: transgender and gender nonconforming kids themselves. 

For their groundbreaking new book, journalist Nico Lang spent a year traveling the country to document the lives of transgender, nonbinary, and genderfluid teens and their families. From the tip of Florida’s conservative panhandle to vibrant queer communities in California, and from Texas churches to mosques in Illinois, American Teenager gives readers a window into the lives of Wyatt, Rhydian, Mykah, Clint, Ruby, Augie, Jack, and Kylie, eight teens who, despite what some lawmakers might want us to believe, are truly just kids looking for a brighter future.

Drawing on hundreds of hours of on-the-ground interviews with them and the people in their communities, American Teenager paints a vivid portrait of what it’s actually like to grow up trans today.

I am giving American Teenager: How Trans Kids Are Surviving Hate and Finding Joy in a Turbulent Era by Nico Lang a rating of 3 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!!

Kiss and Tell by Shannon Tweed

I've had Kiss and Tell by Shannon Tweed on my reading wishlist for a number of years now. I had watched the reality television series, 'Family Jewels', featuring Gene Simmons, Shannon Tweed and their children back in the day. I liked this show to some degree, so decided to add Shannon Tweed's memoir to my reading wishlist.

I decided to listen to Kiss and Tell as my next read as I needed a lighter read after reading Daddy Love by Joyce Carol Oates as it had been such a heavy read due to the subject matter. 

Kiss and Tell by Shannon Tweed seemed like just the fit in terms of being on the lighter side. The unabridged audio version oof Kiss and Tell is narrated by Shannon Tweed herself. I usually prefer to hear the author narrate their own book. Ms. Tweed did a decent job narrating her memoir, but nothing great... And, yes, this memoir is a lighter read.

Kiss and Tell is my 7th read for 2026 and is a short listen at 3 hours, 47 minutes. I was able to finish listening to it in a single, weekend afternoon.

As far as reading material goes, Kiss and Tell was likable. It was published 20 years ago in 2006. I knew some of the information about Shannon Tweed already, but I learned more about her upbringing, relationships, career, and children from reading this book. I wish it contained more recent information like how she and Gene decided to make a reality television series, more about what prompted them to finally get married, and how their children are doing now as adults. 

Below is the summary for Kiss and Tell by Shannon Tweed found on Goodreads:

Two decades and two children after their first meeting at the Playboy Mansion, Shannon Tweed and Gene Simmons are still happily together--with never a fight or even cross words. Kiss and Tell is the surprising other side of the story from one of the world's most beautiful women.

I am giving Kiss and Tell by Shannon Tweed a rating of 3 stars out of 5 stars. It was a decent celebrity memoir.

Until my next post, happy reading!!

Outwitting The Devil by Napoleon Hill

 

Outwitting The Devil by Napoleon Hill is my 80th read for 2025 and the 2nd book I've read by Napoleon Hill. I actually listened to the unabridged, annotated audio version of this book, which is really well read by several narrators.

I had reservations about reading Outwitting The Devil by Napoleon Hill after reading Napoleon Hill's Path to Purpose: 7 Steps to Living a Life that Matters last year in July. Napoleon Hill appears to be a popular self-help/personal growth writer from last century and his book, Think And Grow Rich, seems to be a classic... So, I had decided to acquire two of his books I'd found on sale via the Chirp Audiobook website. 

After reading, Napoleon Hill's Path to Purpose: 7 Steps to Living a Life that Matters, I wasn't sure that it completely resonated with me. Plus, after doing some research online about Napoleon Hill's life online, I discovered on Wikipedia that:

"Hill is a controversial figure. Accused of fraud, modern historians also doubt many of his claims, such as that he met Andrew Carnegie and that he was an attorney."

Needless to say, the above quote from Wikipedia has somewhat soured my views regarding Napoleon Hill, himself, and what he has shared inside his books. It left me wondering if Hill was just a huckster.

This month, I did decide to listen to Outwitting The Devil mainly due to the fact that I paid money to obtain this audiobook before I learned about Hill's past. Also, Outwitting The Devil is a relatively short at roughly six hours in listening length. Also, the subject matter of this book had me curious about its content. 

Outwitting The Devil is definitely better than the first book I read by Napoleon Hill last year. I enjoyed the two main narrators and the third narrator who came in periodically to read the annotated segments written by the editor of this book.

Essentially, Napoleon Hill presents his seven principles of good to help us reach our personal goals and achieve success. He does this by having an imaginary conversation with the Devil himself. We learn how the Devil uses the forces of fear, anger, lust, jealousy, procrastination, and so on to keep us from succeeding in life. 

Indoctrination from schools and churches seems to be big talking points in Hill's book. This indoctrination keeps us from succeeding in life. Thinking freely, defining are own path, and strictly adhering to our life's purpose seems to be the goal in overcoming obstacles in life.

This is just a few of the highlights of Outwitting The Devil by Napoleon Hill. There's more to this book. Interesting presentation of ideas for sure are provided with Outwitting The Devil by Napoleon Hill. Overall it's a middle of the road read for me. I do think it has some ideas that are still applicable for our life and times today.

Below is the publisher's summary for Outwitting The Devil by Napoleon Hill on Amazon's website:

Bestselling author Napoleon Hill reveals the seven principles of good that allow us to triumph over obstacles . . . and find success.

Using his legendary ability to get to the root of human potential, Napoleon Hill digs deep to reveal how fear, procrastination, anger, and jealousy prevent us from realizing our personal goals. This long-suppressed parable, once considered too controversial to publish, was written by Hill in 1938 following the publication of his classic bestseller, Think and Grow Rich. Annotated and edited for a contemporary audience by Rich Dad, Poor Dad and Three Feet from Gold coauthor Sharon Lechter, this book--now available in paper--is profound, powerful, resonant, and rich with insight.

I am giving Outwitting The Devil by Napoleon Hill a rating of 3 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!!

Dogland by Tommy Tomlinson

 

I love dogs and I also love watching dog shows when I find the time. With that in mind, I decided to listen to the unabridged audio version of Dogland by Tommy Tomlinson, which is a nonfiction book about dogs and dog shows like the Westminster Dog Show here in the USA. Also worth noting, Jonathan Davis does a wonderful job narrating Dogland.

I learned a lot about dogs from reading Dogland. Everything from selective breeding to the fact that even dogs can get STIs like brucellosis (a bacterial infection)! If you love learning about dogs and their history in and out of the show ring, then you may enjoy reading this book as much as I did. I also liked that this book discusses whether dogs are happy or not. Plus, there's even a discussion on the difference between show dogs and pet dogs.

Below is the publisher's summary for Dogland by Tommy Tomlinson found on the Goodreads website:

From Pulitzer Prize finalist and author of The Elephant in the Room comes the first inside account of the Westminster Dog Show—America’s oldest and most beloved dog show—following one dog on his quest to become a champion.

Tommy Tomlinson was watching a dog show on television a few years ago when he had a sudden thought: Are those dogs happy? How about pet dogs—are they happy, too? Those questions sparked a quest to venture inside the dog-show world, in search of a deeper understanding of the bond between dogs and humans that has endured for thousands of years. Dogland shares his surprising, entertaining, and unforgettable adventures.

Tomlinson spends three years on the road and goes behind the scenes at dozens of dog shows across the country, where he is licked, sniffed, or rubbed up against by dogs of nearly every size, shape, and breed. Like a real-life version of Best in Show, Dogland follows one champion show dog—a Samoyed named Striker—and his devoted entourage of breeders, handlers, and owners as he competes in the Westminster Dog Show, the oldest and most famous dog show in America. Tomlinson brings the dog-show circuit to life as he witnesses teams scrambling from town to town in search of championship points and colorful ribbons. Along the way, he also speaks to scientists who have discovered new insights into how dogs and people formed their bond—and how that bond has changed over the centuries.

Engaging, charming, and informative, Dogland is an irresistibly appealing read for pop culture followers and animal lovers alike.

I am giving Dogland by Tommy Tomlinson a rating of 4 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!

Common Sense by Thomas Paine

I listened to the unabridged audio version of Common Sense by Thomas Paine, which was nicely narrated by Malk Williams.

Common Sense is a quick listen at 2 hours, 15 minutes. Common Sense is a 47 page essay, which was first published as a pamphlet anonymously in 1776. It advocated independence from Britain.

Common Sense combines both moral and political arguments to help persuade the common people living in the US Colonies to fight for social equality. Common Sense was a sensation upon its publication, which was at the beginning of the American Revolution.

This was the first time I've read Common Sense by Thomas Paine. I enjoyed it. Common Sense stands the test of time and still holds relevance today. I enjoyed that Common Sense touches upon so many genres, such as government,  politics, history, and political philosophy.

If you're interested in earlier American history, Common Sense may be the perfect read for you!

Below is the summary for Common Sense by Thomas Paine from Chirp's website:

The explosive essay that sparked a revolution. When Common Sense hit the streets in 1776, it ignited the American colonies like never before. With bold, plain-spoken language, Thomas Paine challenged the authority of the British monarchy and made the urgent case for American independence. More than just a political argument, this short but powerful work gave everyday people the words to demand freedom—and the courage to fight for it. Radical, rebellious, and razor-sharp, Common Sense remains a landmark of political writing. Its message still resonates today: real change begins when ordinary people dare to speak truth to power.

I am giving Common Sense by Thomas Paine a rating of 3 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!!

Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World by David Epstein

My husband and I recently returned from an eleven day roadtrip. During our roadtrip, we thoroughly enjoyed listening to the unabridged audio version of Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World by David Epstein, which is well narrated by Will Damron.

My husband isn't a book reader per say, but he does enjoy various nonfiction topics like I do. I'd been wanting to read Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World by David Epstein for quite a while. So, after sharing what this book was about with my husband, he was on board with listening to it with me on our roadtrip. He enjoyed listening to Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World by David Epstein as much as I did.

Essentially, Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World takes readers on a deep dive as to why generalists fare much better than specialists  do in real life. Generalists tend to be more creative and make/see connections that specialists do not.

Each chapter of Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World focuses on a specific topic, which makes for interesting reading. I liked the examples given throughout the book to help engage the reader and also help the reader understand the specific concepts the author was conveying in his book.

Below is the publisher's summary for Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World by David Epstein from Chirp's website:

Plenty of experts argue that anyone who wants to develop a skill, play an instrument, or lead their field should start early, focus intensely, and rack up as many hours of deliberate practice as possible. If you dabble or delay, you’ll never catch up to the people who got a head start. But a closer look at research on the world’s top performers, from professional athletes to Nobel laureates, shows that early specialization is the exception, not the rule.

David Epstein examined the world’s most successful athletes, artists, musicians, inventors, forecasters and scientists. He discovered that in most fields—especially those that are complex and unpredictable—generalists, not specialists, are primed to excel. Generalists often find their path late, and they juggle many interests rather than focusing on one. They’re also more creative, more agile, and able to make connections their more specialized peers can’t see.

Provocative, rigorous, and engrossing, Range makes a compelling case for actively cultivating inefficiency. Failing a test is the best way to learn. Frequent quitters end up with the most fulfilling careers. The most impactful inventors cross domains rather than deepening their knowledge in a single area. As experts silo themselves further while computers master more of the skills once reserved for highly focused humans, people who think broadly and embrace diverse experiences and perspectives will increasingly thrive.

I am giving Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World by David Epstein a rating of 5 stars out of 5 stars.

Until my next post, happy reading!!