Reviews of my books 'The Unsure Male' and 'Caste: The Unexplored Territories'

Reviewed By Tommy Wong for Readers’ Favorite

-'The Unsure Male: Final Answer to All Questions Unanswered' by author JT is a book on human evolution. Indeed, according to the subtitle, the book touches on “The future of life, of the human race too.” Right at the beginning, the book raises the question: “Why has nature left almost all the important facilitators of male-female union to vagaries of individual choice, especially when the very consummation of the union is the most crucial and irreplaceable part of the continuation of species?” Then, the book follows up with other points, such as the “unprofessional” nature and the “performance” issue of the male.

Then comes the main contribution of the book, and this too I can resonate with. It shows that there is a “performance” issue in the male. To solve this issue, for those with high mental caliber, they immerse themselves in intense perception, learning and reasoning. For others, they use entertainment or drinking. Ah, this explains why there is so much drinking. But the spin on the solutions to the performance issue is surprising. The book suggests that this is an escape from the dreadful experiences during the post union stage of mating. Really? You see why I said this book offers an unorthodox view. This is also, of course, the “unsure male” the book is referring to.

I found this book thought provoking as it presents an unorthodox view on human evolution and the future of the human race. The opening question is indeed intriguing. Isn’t this the crux of human survival? I am fascinated by the demonstration that the nature of the male is “unprofessional” as compared to the “professional” outlook of the female. I have to say this sounds true to me, but how will the male’s ego take it?

-'Caste - The Unexplored Territories' by author JT is a good book on the exploration of caste. As caste is defined as 'a rigid social class into which members are born and from which they can escape or withdraw with extreme difficulty' by Lundenberg, JT added that it is a type of stratification system, which is most rigid in matters of mobility and distinction of status. Further, social class can be thought of as ‘presenting the external view of social organization', while caste can be thought of as ‘the internal, abstract view'. As such, the caste system is well worth exploring and in this book JT has examined it for the caste system in India. The book covers the theories, the development, the evolution, and the progression of caste in the first four chapters. It then covers the caste and nationalist movements, the singularities of caste in the next two chapters, and a summary of caste in the final chapter.

I find the contents of this book extremely impressive as it contains many intriguing points. I particularly like the seven theories of caste system, how the caste system insulated India from the influence of communism, and how the reservation system worked against the lower caste. I am even more fascinated by how the British treated the caste system completely differently in India as compared to Australia, and how Mahatma Gandhi was actually against the caste system. The book is well written and the sequence of the chapters is well thought out, bringing a deep insight of the caste system to readers. Congratulations, JT!

 http://www.amazon.com/Unsure-Male-male-always-Hurry-ebook/dp/B00UYDTWZM

 http://www.amazon.com/CASTE-Unexplored-Territories-continue-exist-ebook/dp/B00N5E3EDS

OTHER REVIEWS

'The Unsure Male: Final Answer to All Questions Unanswered' Humorous and Unique Study of an Age Old Subject

By Kenneth R. Davison August 12, 2015

The Preface of The Unsure Male - The Rationale For The Irrational is an absolutely delightful introduction to author JT's inspiration to delve into an exploration of an age-old and sometimes controversial subject. He uses amusing anecdotal comparisons found in nature of the behavior of male and female to set the stage.

He then explores the theory of evolution as it relates to male and female and the role it plays in the development of both sexes throughout history. This history is extremely well researched and documented. As well as the research, he uses comparisons of nature throughout the book. Some of his observations I found to be not only thought provoking, but intensely humorous! Such as, "Why do men chase women they have no intention of marrying? The same urge that makes dogs to chase cars they have no intention of driving." And "Sure, God created man before woman. But then you always make a rough draft before the final masterpiece."

This is an extremely intelligent, humorous and unique study of a subject that will surely continue to be a matter of debate for years to come. This book and the theories presented in it would make an excellent choice for book groups - it would undoubtedly lead to hours of lively discussion. Well done to author JT, this is a book that will keep both males and females thinking well after they finish the last chapter.

By KB August 11, 2015

This book is fascinating collections of perceptions and observations of JT the author. The theme is an examination of the female and male energetic and behavior qualities. Across the board females, in the frog species, the animal species all the way up to humans, JT observes are the female is superior in many ways. He goes on to say males have what is called evolution disorder and performance deficit.

He gives examples of frogs in the fright or flight syndrome, It is the females who escaped nearby to safety, while the males being males were slow and escaped to a further location making them more vulnerable to attack. In the animal kingdom the lioness is the hunter and the male is the protector, as he does not have the instinct and strategies of the female.

Written by a male his observations are females are polite,personal and punctual while males were shown to be slower, more aggressive, tend to waste time and be less productive.

Interesting to say the least, as in many cultures women is suppressed and considered inferior. Many times to be supervised and managed as their beliefs dictated.

I believe the author's observations are devoid of other factors and maybe should be explored further. He has a point.

In our culture the male is expected to social, responsible and in leader ship positions. The female has to balance family and career. As the author discuss one has to want to evolve and the males just may be a little slower. I must admit women have been civilizing males since the beginning of time.

Female and Male qualities in of itself are neither good or bad but to be recognized and embraced as male, female behaviors are in each and every one of us. Not one is superior or inferior. We will evolve to learn from each other and unite.

5.0 out of 5 stars  FASCINATING EXPOSE

M. Perks  February 13, 2016

Although this is a study of the differences between the sexes, it is also a study of the human behaviour and how it evolved. What could have been a complex book with lots of jargon, turned out to be a short book of great interest, written in an easy to follow manner that can be understood by laymen like me.. Obviously a lot of research has gone into it, and I must admit I learnt a lot from this. Although it is the normal type of book I read, the author is to be congratulated kin the concept of the book and its execution.

5.0 out of 5 stars  Five Stars!

A Reader on January 31, 2016

Five stars! I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. The Unsure Male is a very interesting and fascinating book. I found it to be a very quick read and easy to understand. Highly intelligent and deep. It focuses on men and woman and how they differ in their make and up and lives. It does it in a very smart and even sensitive way that comes off as very straight forward and focused. I recommend this book for both men and women who seek insight on our make up and evolution. Good read!

3.0 out of 5 stars  Good study

Ruty@ReadingDreaming on January 17, 2016

'The Unsure Male' is an interesting book that focuses on the difference between men and women. It begins questioning evolution and then uses animal behavior as a starting point.

It's is a very intelligent book and you can tell the author did a very deep research work. It presents a lot of scientific statistics and facts which give the book a solid background. There are articles quoted and many links to continue with the topic.

Its length makes it fast to read and the writing style is very professional.

I could say that it's a continuous comparison between male and female behavior but it’s deeper than that. It’s an observation of the human condition and its history. Through relatable examples is easy to understand the author observations.

However, I like it but didn't love it. Like I said, it's an intelligent book but is not something to read just for fun.

4.0 out of 5 stars  The Killer Ape

J. Rogers Barrow October 22, 2015

This text is the work of Roy James, of the Indian Navy, retired. He has written a number of other books. James notes the role of human aggression and its connection with evolution. The book is crafted with care. The book could be of use for school and other projects. Well done!

5.0 out of 5 stars  More Deadly than the Male

Bailey October 21, 2015

 ‘When the Himalayan peasant meets the he-bear in his pride/ He shouts to scare the monster, who will often turn aside/ But the she-bear thus accosted rends the peasant tooth and nail/ For the female of the species is more deadly than the male.’ So Mr. Kipling told us more than a hundred years ago. Now, in his admirable book ‘The Unsure Male’, JT reveals many other differences between male and female. As a woman it came as no surprise to me to discover that we are more productive, efficient and logical than our male counterparts, but this book carefully examines not just the differences between men and women, but also explores just how these differences have manifested themselves through the ages. A fascinating read.

5.0 out of 5 stars  Why can't a woman be more like a man?

Yanville on October 20, 2015

In My Fair Lady Henry Higgins posed the question ‘Why can’t a woman be more like a man?’ At last we have someone who can provide the answer. In his carefully considered and thorough exposition of a comparison of the sexes Roy T James (JT) leaves no stone unturned. Starting with the evolution of the species and making comparisons between humans, insects and mammals JT leads us through his examination of the behavioural traits of man and woman through the ages in an informative, entertaining and often amusing way. This is a must read for anyone who wants to understand what makes the other half tick.

3.0 out of 5 stars... basic knowledge of evolution and its consequences in a great way.

Sankalpita Singh on October 5, 2015

The book overall is quite an interesting and insightful read and if read with full focus and concentration will surely help increase our basic knowledge of evolution and its consequences in a great way.

4.0 out of 5 stars Instruction manual for understanding the male of the species?

Kristin A. Scearce on March 20, 2015

This book really makes it easy to understand the whole "men are from Mars, women are from Venus" idea by explaining just what makes each side of the spectrum tick, obviously more so on the male perspective. Being a woman and reading all of this from a male POV, I found this very interesting as to the reason why so many men are "afraid" or "incapable" of commitment. Easy to follow, funny at times, with just enough information to keep you invested but not bore you to tears. Nice little instruction manual! =)

'Caste - The Unexplored Territories'

 An in-depth study of Caste Syatem

Anil Saxena August 25, 2015

An in depth study of the caste system as well as its advantages and pitfalls have been well discussed by the author. A engrossing work and value for time spent on it.

4.0 out of 5 stars Interesting discourse

Brenchris on February 8, 2015

This book is a short discourse with lots of references and links to other websites for more information.

It was more like a paper for a school project.

It was rather interesting

5.0 out of 5 stars  Interesting and informing

Robert Krueger on February 3, 2015

This is not a book meant to entertain, rather, it is meant to inform, an examination of the caste system in India and by extension societies in general. The book explores the history of the caste system, rationalization for its existence, and progression through the years. Although caste has evolved, it continues to exist.

As explained in the book, caste is a rigid social class system from which it is difficult to escape. The definition can be expanded to all societies because there are distinctions of wealth and status, and race and religion. Within our own country, we have a history of beliefs (in many regards like caste) associated with evil (slavery), extreme prejudice (segregation), and difference of wealth and social status. In a broad sense, individuals have mobility to move-up, but don't class difference continue to exist?

The author makes his case by describing the evolution of caste (extend the meaning to include other cultures) and that it must be eliminated before it is too late. (The question is to what end, to what kind of society?) The book identifies reasons why caste has been accepted in India. Is this not true in our society even though our prejudices seem to be in remission?

Each of us can gain by reading this book. See also his book Why Evolve. Reviewed by the author of The Children's Story, About Good and Evil.

5.0 out of 5 stars`As the cure is not working, we need to change medication'

Grady Harp HALL OF FAME TOP 100 REVIEWER  September 26, 2014

The author of this illuminating short book that examines the caste system is simply designated as `JT' - no biographical data is offered nor is there any reference to be found on the Internet to offer the reader of his/her credentials. The only aspect of this JT is that the mind of this author is exceptionally well informed and has researched the topic of caste from every angle. After a deeply moving preface of why the author came to write this book, he begins his dissection of the concept and history of caste.

JT poses the question, `Why does caste continue to exist?' in India in defiance of `progress in all other parts of the world. Early in the discussion he states, "Caste is merely a rigid social class into which members are born and from which they can escape or withdraw with extreme difficulty". In other words, it is a type of stratification system, which is most rigid in matters of mobility and distinction of status.' He prods the origins of caste: `Racial theory - that caste system is a gift of Aryans, Political theory - that caste system is an invention of Brahmins, Occupational theory - that caste system is the functional differentiation of occupational differences, Traditional theory - that caste system is of divine origin aimed to maintain social harmony, Guild theory -that caste system is the product of interaction between guilds, tribes and religion, Religious theory - that caste system is the institutionalization of prevailing customs, each caste being the followers of certain deity and Evolution theory - that caste system is a product of social evolution moderated by various factors , like prejudices , lack of control mechanisms, geographic isolation of Indian peninsula as well as conquerors' policies...from

conquests by Muslims, Europeans and the British, and lately, Russian revolution and the influence of communism on Indian thought.'

Communism has failed, social stratification in other regions has failed, other countries treat the downtrodden lower minorities with lynching, genocide, forced abortion, reproduction controls, burning at the stake (think Ku Klux Klan), etc, so why must it continue in India today? JT doesn't provide answers - he instead poses questions to the reader about how intolerable the preservation of this inequality continues. He references many sources from every category of thought. `The medicine which is being tried towards amelioration of the victims of caste is reservation. It can be easily observed that we are applying that cure with no regard to its consequences, just as we followed the caste system with no regard to its ill effects. It is only logical to realize that, even without considering that, as the cure is not working, we need to change medication.'

Though the book may be difficult to read because of all the terms Western readers find unfamiliar, there is no doubt that this is an important document that should be required reading by all concerned with human rights and sociological reform. Grady Harp, September 14

All my Books and all my Hubs

Sometimes I wonder, how is that each one of my friends happen to be so memorable a character? One among them, who is also a little more unforgettable than others, Upendra Puri, used to say, “If two people agree on everything, one of them is unnecessary”. Perhaps I didn’t have the courage to disagree openly with all, I quietly thought differently.

Few thoughts became books and another few remain as ideas.

My Page at amazon.com  

https://www.amazon.com/JT/e/B00J61JE9W

And the books are:

Caste : The Unexplored Territories

Why caste, a relic of the dark ages, did not evolve into a modernized version in the natural course of events, though other remnants of that era gave way to modernism. Why it didn’t wither away, though there is nobody who does not earnestly say that they want to see its' demise. This book is trying to answer that by taking a unique approach the problem. Although what is vogue is to consider caste as something imposed from above, sufficient reasons are given pointing to the contrary and explaining why people would have been in more or less consonance with this system.

http://www.amazon.com/CASTE-Unexplored-Territories-continue-exist-ebook/dp/B00N5E3EDS    

short link: myBook.to/caste 

Print copy: htpps://www.amazon.com/dp/1520239343

The Unsure Male

The unsure male reveals how, female species across the board happen to civilize Male, and for what benefit. Also, what makes the male willingly go for it. How and why male learns to stretch, whatever may be of interest, to its limits, and immerse in it. How that led to formalities, niceties and all forms of extremism, including the few that are a grave threat to happy living, and the many that are helpful, enjoyable or life saving.

(When writing this book, I never thought the ideas presented here in a lighter vein will prove to be of great significance, more so to the present global happenings)

http://www.amazon.com/Unsure-Male-male-always-Hurry-ebook/dp/B00UYDTWZM

short link: getBook.at/theunsuremale

Print copy: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1520243669

Glympses Of Autobiography

Autobiographical anecdotes written by a "common man with an uncommon family"

http://www.amazon.com/Glimpses-Autobiography-What-going-write-ebook/dp/B00TZHRTQM

short link: myBook.to/glimpses 

Print copy: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1520244037

Hubs that Provoke

A non-fiction philosophical collection, intended to provoke, even infuriate the reader at times.

Observations about libido and gender, discussions on religion, contrasting the material and the spiritual worlds, views about terrorism and extremism, reviews of GMO crops, chemical fertilizers and organic farming, many facets of global warming with discussion about how, differing philosophies may see the phenomena as something to adapt to rather than to attempt to curtail, are some of ‘touchy’ the topics covered here.

http://www.amazon.com/Hubs-that-Provoke-fully-right-ebook/dp/B01DS6H7BW

Print copy: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1520238053

More Hubs that Provoke

Another non-fiction philosophical collection, intended to provoke, even infuriate the reader at times. It begins by examining our difficulty to learn about our life, ponders about questions like the use of names, our nature, our lifestyle, etc. What future, is in store for things like worry, unrest, knowledge or god, are some of the topics covered here.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1520243782

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MTM5XIH

An Easy Route to Peace

Why is our society always in a state of boil? A small perturbation can lead to a world war, which could exterminate the race itself. A few thoughts, examining, why humans can never be at peace with themselves.

How, human nature itself is the culprit, along with the abstraction called ‘the ultimate aim of life’, both of which we hold in high esteem. This book is suggesting a way to extricate ourselves. How, by moderating our dependence on such obscure ideas, we can herald a bright future for our future.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1697315321

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07YNNRRNN

An Easier Route to Peace

Isn't there an easy way to keep humans to embrace peace at all times.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C4L78CPZ

Homo-Posterus

A SciFi novel, about an inventor who travels to his future. He goes to 3000 AD and meets with our successors. He happens to learn certain horrible stories of our coming years before reaching the point of no return.

https://www.amazon.com/Homo-posterus-vadis-Roy-T-James-ebook/dp/B01JBTVTWI/

Print copy: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1520243928

Overhaul Life

Steps for A Good Future

How to ensure that our life continues to flow smooth, without the frequent hiccups, we are used to. Well, make the human machine work even better. Here are some tips.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B67NDY1L

Life of Style: 

Where Lifestyle comes before Life

In our current lifestyle, there is no time and space for ideas to bloom unhindered. Hence, the perpetual unrest. Therefore, we need to turn to nursing fresh ideas, and that will bring life to full bloom. And there will be peace everywhere.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09N2BPWQP

Fathoming the Enigma

Is it A Real One

A trip to the bottom of the issue, to see the culprits that declare and celebrate our status as an unfathomable one.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CMP4Y8M6

Human element of the Human

What Differentiates them from All Others

What is the unique part of the human?  How can we derive benefits from there?

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPVFYGGL

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Ideas that are published as ‘hubs’:

1.  Male, Female and Libido – An Oblique View

Why are we so misinformed about male and female libido, and what we need to do.

2.  Why do we live as a society?

How come we have chosen the present way of life.

3.  Religion: How a New one Evolve?

What all can lead us to a new faith.

4. What makes us do, what we do?

The real reasons behind whatever we do

5.  Unity is strength? Like Hell!

Yes, it is so. A surprising find!

6.  Why do we like, what we like?

The real reasons behind our choices

7.  In Defense of Terrorism

Why should terrorism be a part of our world

8.  A FEW OF MY BASIC DOUBTS

Some things that look different to me, from whatever it says

9.  A Few More of my Basic Doubts

Some more things that looks different from what it says

10. Some more of My Doubts

Still more things that doesn’t look what it says

11.  Mind and matter, what differentiates the two?

Is there a difference? What is it?

12.. The Spiritual and the Material, What is the Difference?

What are we to learn from spirit, and from the substance?

13.  The Spiritual and the Material, Why are they Different?

Why should there be a difference between the spirit and the substance?

14. The Spiritual and the Material, What Finally, is the Takeaway?

How we can use both the spirit and the substance, a little more gainfully

 15.   Why is there Unrest?

The causes for unrest in any society

16.  A way to kick out intolerance

My recommendations for a happy, tolerant society

17.   The Real and The Abstract: Where is the difference?

How real things influence us, and how imagination does it

18.   Getting Hurt by Words: What is so Special?

Is there any difference between the two? What is it?

19.   Can't we warm up to Global Warming?

Is global warming such a serious threat? Is there a way?

 20.   Why do we react the way we react?

The real reasons behind our reactions

21.   The secret of good times, of achievements and success

It is very difficult, not to achieve success, if you follow me.

22.   Man can't find what is good for him, but as men, they however do

A lone man rarely does things right, but as a group, they seldom go wrong

23.   Is Language, for Communication?

We need to understand the real purpose of language, to benefit the most from it

24.   How to stop terrorism?

To kill the germs of terror, right at its root

25.   How to be free of Intolerance?

What can make us more tolerant to each other

26.   How to Confront Life?

Always choose the correct options to make life a success

27.   Global Warming: Is the Fear Rational?

Are we overlooking everything that can pacify us?

28.   What  is Behind Sexism?

If sexism is there, everywhere, there will be a reason too for it

29.   Organize or Perish. Is that the Choice?

Are we well organized?

30.   Why are we Behind Alcohol?

Presently, we are approaching this issue in a unique way. Doesn’t it need a re-look?

31.   Why Gun for the Natural?

Is our attraction to the natural, natural?

32.   Always Co-operate?

Is co-operation a panacea? Are there better ways?

33.   How Essential are Minorities?

Surprisingly, minority can be more important than the majority

34.   Humans - The Error Prone Species?

Humans are better at making mistakes, but why?

35.   Humans – What is so Special?

What all is there to distinguish humans from other species of life

 36.   Why can’t we Study in this Way?

Why is learning a problem? Is there an easy way to study?

37.   Why does Fair Skin look Good?

Why fair is lovely

38.   How Relevant are Political Parties?

Why do we need parties? What do they do?

 39.   What is the Origin of Dowry?

Surprising answer to a non-intuitive custom (Which makes the custom intuitive!)

 40.   Why can’t we Live in Peace?

If there is no peace among humans, there has to be a reason for it

 41.   Am I a Writer by Default?

What made me write, I wonder

 42.   What is Presence of  Mind?

What exactly is it? Where and how does it originate? Can we nurture it?

43.   How to Know, What is Life?

Why is that we are not as clear about life as about lifeless things? Can we learn everything about everything?

44.   What is the Future of Politics?

What should happen to politics, what will, and  why

45.   What will be the Future for Humans?

Some predictions of our future

46.   What will be the Future of Democracy?

What all will happen to democracy, especially in view of scientific progress

47.   How to Appropriate Democracy?

How to make the future democracy, serve our needs, better.

48.   Why do Bad Habits Flourish?

Why bad habits are like a comfortable bed, easy to get into, but hard to get out of.

49.   Why Democracy?

Why the prevailing idea that democracy is heaven, while authoritarian regimes are different forms of hell, need not be true.

50.   Why should we have Political Parties?

Is party politics beneficial? Why are we sticking to it?

51.   Do we have a Penchant for the Natural?

All of us are attracted to the natural. Is it a natural choice?

52.   Are we Sober towards Alcohol?

How and why alcohol and its effects have always been a dear topic of our society.

53.   Cryogovernance: Government of the Future?

Isn’t there a need to find new ways of governing ourselves?

54.   How to Make Democracy Dynamic

Hasn’t the system we have of governing ourselves, a very costly one? What all needs to be done?

55.   Towards a More Stable Society

What should be done to make the natural state of human society, a stable one?

56.   What is human Forte?

As a species, what would have been our forte? What are we naturally good at?

57.   Isn’t this a Good Way to Study?

Why is learning a problem? A new approach can make it simple, easy, and pleasurable.

58.   Why is Human Society never at Peace?

There has to be a fundamental cause, other than the triggers.

59.   Antipedia – The Reverse Encyclopedia

A guide to what things are not

60.   Do Nurture take Precedence over Nature?

Let us study a few actual cases and decide

61.   Shouldn't We Have Thresholds in Life?

Yes, and how can we add the idea of a threshold for everything, to make life more balanced

62.   Some Theories of How We Became Human, and Why None of Them Need be Correct

Critical examination of a few theories in this regard

63.   The Future, of the World of Beliefs

Our future may be more dangerous than we think

64.   Do We Need Experts?

Do expertise hide any danger?

65.   Do we need New Wisdom, that too from a New Philosophy?

Where do we need change, the most? Doubtlessly, our philosophy. Why?

66.   Is there a need to revisit evolution?

Let us look at evolution from the perspective of an altruistic animal

67.   Rational Mythology

When we look at mythology as a pragmatist, it is the most useful of all sciences

68.   How do Human Societies Differ? And how do they Unify?

How come human society is in small chunks that are generally always at unease with each other

69. Origin of Human Nature

Human nature is celebrated extensively. It gets used as a good excuse to cause inconvenience to others, or to tolerate excesses, or for something else, if it pleases one. It is also the cause of all the failures of human race.

70.  My Mantra for Success

What one quality, if added to whatever natural talents one has, shall definitely lead one to success? Can’t this be an effective replacement for all teachings of success messiahs?

Why do we have this large gap with no signs of life, from millions of years back when human race began, to a few millenniums BCE where we have the first signs of a civilization? And why we have too many signs of human existence, since then?

71. Corruption - A Benign Evil?

Corruption is found everywhere, in all countries and societies. Is it so bad as it is professed, and, isn't there a benefit?

72. A-New-Approach-to-Mental-Health

We have a wide variety of measures for treatment and cure of our body. We are not that well equipped to treat our minds. Can we see every new exhortation, appreciation, complement, or threat as a mental germ? If so, what should we do? Fight against the germs of Mind, Immunize our Minds against Germs, or Both.

73. How-to-Make-Human-Society-Peaceful

Why are we agitated? What is wrong with our society? Nothing, but the inappropriate choice of our actions to various triggers. If so, what can we do to correct it? Easy, Let every form of response flourish. The one most suitable will naturally survive.

74. Hazy Origins of the Need for Approval

Human life can be seen as a struggle for approval. Where we agree, disagree, or be unconcerned, it is to gain someone's approval. Why? What is its origin? What do we gain from it?

75.  The Future of the Rational 

Human takes pride in being rational. How did they become one? Will that continue? An examination leads to results that truly reflect the reality, especially of current times.

76. Is Human Life Complex?– If so, Why, and How to Simplify  

Why do we see human life as something more complex than all other forms of life?

77. Computer for Successful Society

Computer is a success. Every moment, we find it making wonders somewhere. Can we learn something from it?

78. Language is Driving out Logic

Is language, an excuse to bypass logic? Aren’t we (unconsciously) rejecting logic, except where it aligns with some element of the language in use?

79. God – A Review

What is god? What is likely to happen, as time flies?

80. The Future of Our Lifestyle

Humans follow a non-optimum lifestyle. Things happen in such a way as to appear new to them, and they end up with a strong notion that they are progressing. We need to adopt a new lifestyle, before it is too late.

81.  A True Unity in Diversity

What is a good way to unite and live, without suppressing diversity?

82. Cryolifestyle, The Need of the Hour

What can be an optimum lifestyle?

83. Our Future, 0 or 1 ?

Presently, computer is there, everywhere, in some form. What effect, it will have on the future of human race? What are the possibilities?

More Reviews....

‘THE OPEN SOCIETY AND ITS ENEMIES’ by K. R. POPPER begins with a telling declaration: “If in this book harsh words are spoken about some of the greatest among the intellectual leaders of mankind, my motive is not, I hope, the wish to belittle them. It springs rather from my conviction that if we wish our civilization to survive we must break with the habit of deference to great men.” The author makes a very good attempt to show, how great men make great mistakes, and a better attempt at connecting some of the greatest thinkers of the past with the perennial attack on freedom and reason. Popper begins with Plato, whose teachings, like, “change is evil, and rest divine”, “history is a history of social decay”, and his attacks on equalitarian theory that "Equal treatment of unequal must produce inequity" set the pace for future exponents. Plato, as he did not wish his leaders to have originality or initiative, altered education accordingly, with less attention to independent thought, which we have been continuing ever since. Popper then follows it up with the historical progress of closed societies, Hegel and Marx shown as the significant sources that gave widespread acceptability to such ways of thinking.

‘THE OPEN SOCIETY AND ITS ENEMIES’ by K. R. POPPER is not an easy book to read. The volume I of this book is comparatively clearer, the assessment of Plato’s contribution to the making of closed societies, and the way those tenets deviated from the teachings of Socrates and other wise men of early Greece make interesting reading. Volume II is a bit harder. How the ideas propounded by the author leads to a closed society, or close an open society, is not demonstrated very well. For example, the pioneering ideas of intellectual intuition from Aristotle and the resulting vagueness, are shown to have contributed immensely to the birth of such societies. So also is the doctrine of definition (what he calls ‘hairsplitting’). But how that takes place is not very clear, especially why the others’ (other thinkers of ancient and modern world) writing did not have any such impact.

However, it made one thing clear to me. The present world with the tumultuous human society is not an accident of history. It is the result of dedicated efforts by the followers of Plato, who continued with such sharp dogmatization, aided handsomely by the indifference shown by others. And we are faithfully perpetuating it, of course, with each generation adding some more bite, to those added by the previous generations. Just as the large majority of good, reasonable, talented or moderate ones among our forefathers left the world without a trace, the right thinking majority of the present also will make its silent exit. Just as we come across our worthy ancestors during much of our explorations, coming generations might learn of the good, silent majority of worthy forefathers, if the society then is open to explorations of the past.

‘Secular meditation : 32 practices for cultivating inner peace, compassion, and joy’ by Rick Heller is a practical guide for meditation. The book is divided into 4 parts, and in Part I is discussed the ways of harnessing compassion and joy for meditating. Part II discusses the concept of mindfulness and how it aids in meditating, that too with the help of the reality around us, like ambient sounds, our own body and other invocations. Part III focuses on cultivating joy and introduces us to more esoteric topics like walking meditation, mindful observation, conscious eating etc. Additional practices are handled by Part IV, which discusses mindfulness of emotions, using daydreaming for meditating, and a discussion on ways to handle the risks associated with meditation, bringing the book to a close.

This book is written for nonreligious people who want to cultivate a meditation practice that will not only enrich their lives but also help create a better world. As we can easily see, by associating its practice with familiar actions, as well as dissociating largely from the esoteric world of the mysterious, the author has succeeded in bringing meditation practices into our living rooms. It’s fairly easy to meditate, I found, whether while listening to beautiful music, or meditating to ambient sounds. Using whatever sounds are present at this very moment provides a deep insight into where we can find joy in our lives. This is an insightful book, a great help, especially for people like me who find the religious impositions on such activities, a little too much.

A NEW THEORY OF HUMAN EVOLUTION by SIR ARTHUR KEITH examines questions of human evolution, like how and in what circumstances and by what means were the body and the brain of an ape transformed into those of a human being. The book further examines many of the other related questions, like, when and where did this transformation take place?, is there a “machinery of isolation” resident in the mentality of ape and of man, as well as, what caused the  division of evolving humanity into a multitude of small, separate, competitive communities or societies. Exploring humanness, the book seeks to address issues like, how far man’s nature of surrounding his territory by a delimited frontier affected evolution, what effect did co-operation, bias, resentment, revenge, group spirit and patriotism have on evolution, and, how did status, loyalty, morality and elements of leadership affect evolution. The book concludes with a dissertation, highlighting the ascent of man as a denizen of all parts of the world, dividing and conquering the planet as five major divisions of mankind.

This book is a collection of independent, self contained essays on the topics covered. Each of them answers certain facet of the whole problem, convincingly and with necessary material support, maintaining a logical flow of ideas. I found this book very interesting; it enabled me to see evolution in a totally different light. The conclusions drawn by the author are so intuitive that it made me wonder, why I didn’t think in these lines earlier.

‘Biases in Social Judgment: Design Flaws or Design Features?’ by Martie G. Haselton and David M. Buss defines human character thus: “Humans appear to fail miserably when it comes to rational decision making. They ignore base rates when estimating probabilities, commit the sunk cost fallacy, are biased toward confirming their theories, are naively optimistic, take undue credit for lucky accomplishments, and fail to recognize their self-inflicted failures. Moreover, they overestimate the number of others who share their beliefs, demonstrate the hindsight bias, have a poor conception of chance, perceive illusory relationships between non-contingent events, and have an exaggerated sense of control. Failures at rationality do not end there. Humans use external appearances as an erroneous gauge of internal character, falsely believe that their own desirable qualities are unique, can be induced to remember events that never occurred, and systematically misperceive the intentions of the opposite sex.” And hence there is a need to examine of our cognitive machinery and to address the defects in its design. It begins with the evolutionary foundations of social judgments and decisions, and examines one important aspect of human nature: we are apt to want our version of the truth, rather than the truth itself to prevail. One good example of this, the book mentions, is the over-perception of womanliness (his interest!) by men and under-perception of commitment (her interest!) by women, leading to a far greater prevalence of disruption in such kind of relationships. After analyzing a horde of social issues, the book concludes that the social world is replete with uncertainty, pointing to the necessity of further studies.

‘Thinking Fast and Slow’ by Daniel Kanheman describes the working of the mind as an uneasy interaction between two conceptual ideas, System I and System II. System I is mostly of automatic response, and System II, always of considered responses. The book analyzes the whole gamut of our mental transactions as a combination of responses from two functional parts, identifiable as the experiencing self and the remembering self. How each of these take part in our daily transactions of the mind, like warding off the effect of anchors, maintaining a mental image that is greatly different from reality, and the enigma, of humans showing a deep resistance to demystification, are only few of the imponderables that are covered by this analysis.

‘Thinking Fast and Slow’ by Daniel Kanheman is a scholarly discourse on the functional aspects of our brain. This book did help me a lot in finding answer to some of the incomprehensible quirks of human nature, widely observed in our inexplicable reactions and the uniqueness of each individual’s approach. Like the huge level of inconsistency, we show in our responses to  everyday triggers or the penchant we exhibit to make complex, even the most fundamental. These and other distinct signs and elements of human conduct find careful consideration in this book. For example, how the same event can lead to different reactions, in the same mind at different times, and in many minds at the same time. This book does throw much light on the working of the mind, showing and explaining in easy, clear and witty language, what makes our psyche work the way it works. The illustrations provided by appropriate real life examples simplify to a great extent, the peculiar working of the human brain. Rich with a flurry of anecdotes recalling instances of enigmatic behavioral patterns of fellow humans, this is a real page turner for anyone who would like to mind ones mind.

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Mark Kane mysteries Book IV – Till Death, by John Higgins, introduce Mark Kane, the ‘thinking’ investigator, and his friend and partner Lucy. They are approached by Don Maddox, who, on sensing abnormal conduct from his wife Lisa, hires their services to shadow her and ensure safety. They find Lisa clandestinely meeting a gentleman and seemingly a victim of blackmail. Further investigations open up certain unusual bank transfers by Lisa in addition to few shady events of her past. The blackmailer is found dead and on hearing this information, a relieved Maddox, calls off further investigation by the detectives. But professional integrity prevails, and Mark continues with the inquiry. The novel culminates in some definite answers, clearing the inconsistencies accumulated over the years.

Mark Kane epitomizes a confident, competent investigator, with his sense of humor, professionalism and cool headed approach evident throughout. Don Maddox, tense because of the affection to his wife and Lisa, who is also tense because of some of her past, make interesting characters. The actions from the detectives as well as from the police force are shown with meticulous detail, dramatically and with suspense. This is a well narrated and fast paced tale crafted professionally. I liked it a lot; the suave Mark Kane can go ahead and take the place occupied by many stalwarts of detection, like Paul Drake or Nero Wolfe.

‘DISCOURSE ON THE METHOD OF RIGHTLY CONDUCTING THE REASON, AND SEEKING TRUTH IN THE SCIENCES’ by Rene Descartes begins thus: “Good sense is, of all things among men, the most equally distributed; for every one thinks himself so abundantly provided with it, that those even who are the most difficult to satisfy in everything else, do not usually desire a larger measure of this quality than they already possess.” He therefore reasons out the proposed methods, starting with Languages, History or Ancient fables, whether these can be a fit for conducting reason. Not finding luck, he moves on to Eloquence, Mathematics and theology, to continue his ill luck. Philosophy appears with great promise; but though it is cultivated by the most gifted, there is no single matter where there is no dispute. All other sciences being offshoots of this, they can never be firm on such infirm foundations, he declares. He is then lost in his own thoughts to reach a two forked approach. 1) Do not accept anything as true unless known with certitude, and 2) Divide every difficulty into many parts; start with the easiest part and progress to more complex ones.

‘50 Psychology Classics’ by Tom Butler-Bowdon explores writings from such iconic figures as Freud, Adler, Jung, Skinner, James, Piaget, and Pavlov, and also highlights the work of contemporary thinkers such as Gardner, Gilbert, Goleman, and Seligman. There is a commentary devoted to each book, revealing the key points and providing a context of the ideas, people, and movements surrounding it.

This is a book, which, more than nourishing ones intellect, can enhance ones worth in another’s judgment. It covers almost all that could have lured one into studying this branch of science, condensing the fifty classics into significant groupings. Each of such groupings, like, ‘A Science of Brain’, ‘On the Trails of Motivation’ or ‘Creative Power’, acquaints us with the books that spurred trend setting thoughts and opened new vistas in psychological research. A list, of 50 more classics is provided in the book, perhaps to cater to the needs of the readers in pursuing this subject with renewed interest. I, though a greenhorn to these areas, found this a very interesting book. Not only that this is a good read, but also it made me fetch the original work more often than not.

‘Her’ by Felicia Johnson begins when a school going girl, Kristen, is found in a dismal state with her body and mind badly ravished. Long stay in the hospital and the association with fellow youngsters needing similar psychiatric care is being tried, to rid her of the horrid memories, of her past, the separation of parents, step father and his amorous advances, as well as the anger she feels towards her mother. Her constant association with the young crowd facing problems of mental health, like manic depressive nature, identity disorder etc. manages to bring her ailment of borderline personality disorder under control. After she gets discharged, her journey continues in a bumpy path to eventual recovery.

‘Her’ by Felicia Johnson is an absorbing tale. The author has succeeded in portraying the agonizing experiences of a hurt child, especially a victim of sexual demeanor, remarkably well. The ‘good Samaritan’ role, a fellow patient can be of in a hospital, comes out clearly in this narration. (I had experienced it!) I found that commendable moderation is maintained in the description of close, sexual encounters, showing respect to the sensibilities of those inside (child victims), as well as those outside the book (readers). A very good novel, it gives a good commentary on borderlines and how they tend to make irrational decisions based off of their intense emotions. Smooth flow of words adds to its delectation quotient.

  

‘You can’t ruin my day’ by Allen Klein is funny, lighthearted, and real, providing anecdotal advice that will help you gain the happiness perspective and get over annoyances. It contains fifty-two themes, or “Wake-Up Calls,” to enhance your life. It is organized into seven sections, namely Start-up, Wake-up, Wise-up, Grow-up, Crack-up, Wrap-up and Wind-up.  Concepts about how to counteract the things that dampen your day are added frequently as Wake-Up Calls. Meaningful quotations and anecdotes with relevance to the topic under discussion enrich this inspiring book. Extolling the virtues of novelty, Allen ends this book with an interesting quote “If you always do what you have always done, you will always get what you have always gotten.”

Allen gives greater importance to ‘doing’ rather than ‘opposing’. The author proposes a light but effective way of perceiving all that is happening with you in a different light to help you go ahead with whatever one is seized of. Simple, exploratory questions like “Am I willing not to let anything or anyone upset me?” or “Am I willing to put annoyances aside today?” are included in this book to help one remain focused on goals. Allen boldly says, “To be happier and not let anyone ruin your day, the secret of life is to not take anything personally, to let go and to stop resisting. ONE OF THE things that can quickly ruin your day is insisting that everything be perfect” It gave me a lot to think, a fresh look at the issues of motivation and success.

Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader’s Favorite_____________________________

‘Choose to Lose’ by Casey Hayden propounds a complete regime for weight control. It consists of different meal plans called phases I, II and III. The complete 28 day plan is made of four weeks, each week composed by two days of phase I meal, another two days of phase II meal and the remaining three days of phase III meal. Each of the three phases, the constituents, and its contribution the body’s wellness is covered in detail. The book also suggests an array of menus that are appropriate for each phase, in addition to proposing a comprehensive exercise plan. The best advice is the last one: “Stay positive.  Look forward to a better tomorrow…you will be encouraged to keep your newfound habits and begin to live a happy life again.”

‘Choose to Lose’ by Casey Hayden is in fact for dieting with help of meals, specially formulated to meet body’s needs. The help of extensive directions given to prepare the suggested menu and the ample exercises included with the plan should be removing the drudgery from weight control, if not making it into a child’s play. The instructions given in the book are quite clear and concise. This, and the fact that at no stage does this book talk of dieting, always suggesting a menu instead, should be endearing the book to those waiting for a pleasant way to shed fat. This is thus a very good book; it should be making the tedious task of controlling ones weight a more exhilarating experience.

Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader’s Favorite_____________________________

‘MIRROR IMAGES: A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO HAPPINESS’ by Christine and Cheryl lyric is a path discovered by two sisters, both of whom struggled through a lifetime filled with depression and sadness. “We came to see this sadness as an unrelenting force that propelled us in our search” The mirroring process, rather our daily experiences with others, and their resulting reflections, can assist us in uncovering the truth of what we view ourselves to be. The book introduces us to a seven step process to achieve this in actual life, that too illustrating each step with examples. Complimentary supports to mirror images are also shown, which consist of books, practitioners, meditation music, healthy diet and other forms of help, one can avail.

The book mentions that the mirroring process can be extremely liberating, and it can make you feel free from longstanding patterns that kept you tied to inaccurate views. By explaining that these patterns were once created by your internal confusion, doubt, anger, or fear of the unknown, the sisters are giving us a good reason to try this. For, who is free from internal confusion, fear other destabilizing forces? However the steps suggested are more or less abstract in nature and are dependant on ones perception. For example, “STEP SIX: Discover the Truth to Declare and Integrate a New State of Being”. I found this book rather difficult for a beginner and I think a thorough study might be needed to absorb this. This book has a good discussion on the positive changes that can be expected from mirroring, which, of course, is a motivator.

Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader’s Favorite_____________________________

‘SMOKING: QUIT With Your Whole Body - Comprehensive Advice on Preventing & Healing the Effects of Smoking’ by George Barnett & Irfan Ali is a complete study on how smoking play with life. It mentions about the unwanted constituents of cigarette smoke, like nicotine, tar, and carbon monoxide, and other harmful chemicals present - about 43 cancer-causing agents and about 400 toxins. The specific effect of smoking and resulting health changes like extra need of vitamin E and greater affinity to erectile dysfunction are noted. Smoking cessation aids like those blocking the nicotine receptor, Nicotine Patch, Nicotine Gums and others are introduced, explaining the functions, benefits and correct use of these gadgets.

I think the book’s title is a misnomer, 'Live with your whole body..' is better. This book presents us with the good that is there around us to enjoy, other than smoke, by giving us a broad lecture on the benefits of a healthy diet and good life style with regular exercise. How smoking can hinder this, like a simple indigestion, is also briefly touched upon. The desire, I think, to quit from smoking should take place as a natural response, perhaps, as the author intended. Hence this book is “not to give you scientific evidence of each and everything, but to provide you a comprehensive guidance and suggestions in a digestible and engaging manner to arouse your interest on the subject: preventing and healing the effects of smoking”. This is a very good book; it contains a lot of information. A bulleted list or other methods to indicate stress, as well as an index, would have been helpful additions.

Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader’s Favorite_____________________________

‘WHITE WALLS’ by H.M.C has its beginning in a crazy artist George and a wayward damsel Samantha, being made to join certain psychiatric treatment at Rowan’s Home Psychiatric Center. Dr Jade, who is presently in charge of the treatment, develop suspicions of what is going on and, encounters more and more trouble as she progress her inquisitive visits. Her attempts to uncover the secrets that will allow her to finally help her patients to heal, take her closer to few of the patients, like Samantha, as well as her father, Dr Karl, a reputed psychiatrist. With the help from Dr Karl, Samantha joins others including Dr Jade in launching an attempt to uncover the secrets held by Dr Green, the head of the institution. However quite unexpected and intriguing developments take place, leading to a thrilling conclusion.

‘WHITE WALLS’ by H.M.C has a very good narration and the story flows free. The personal compulsions of disturbed people as well as the helplessness, others are bound to face while dealing with them, come out in bright colors. And this is quite notable in the parts played by George, Samantha and Dr Jade. Each and every character can be seen to be having their marked identity in the whole plot and that can speak a lot about HMC’s apt handling. One thing I should mention though. More clarity about the professional background of Dr Green and the research institution would have enabled the reader to attach oneself closer to the character – thereby deriving a greater share of entertainment. On the whole, a very good read.

Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader’s Favorite_____________________________

‘Coloring Serenity’ by Karen Mc Dermott is a collection of mandalas that can be colored appropriately for ones taste. They generally are of abstract forms, of geometrical shapes and figures, and the full set contains twenty different patterns. These more or less resemble contemporary designs and should be of wide acceptance, especially for meditation. In addition, the designs are well suited for learning the art of coloring and present a picture, appropriate for developing the necessary techniques of concentration. Karen has also provided quite exhaustive guidelines for creating ones own mandala, and has given blank pages for making those.

The significance of a hobby, especially for people with stressful jobs, family responsibilities, and busy schedules can never be overemphasized. We know that those are extremely beneficial in relieving our stress and promoting our health and happiness. And drawing or coloring is a good hobby. Also, mandala is generally used for meditations to ignite ones thought process. Pursue it, enjoy it, and soon you'll find yourself developing a greater sense of context for what truly matters in life. This book therefore is doubly helpful, it aids in developing ones potential in fine arts, while providing one with a good object to meditate. It is also a fact that hobbies matter just as much, if not more, than for those persons with less on their plate.  That establishes the universal market too, for such a book as this. This is a well conceived book, the patterns shown are simple enough to color, but complex enough to hold ones attention.

Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader’s Favorite_____________________________

‘I'm Not Crazy... I'm Allergic’ by Sherilyn Powers is a recount of her own experiences written with a story component, her own observations, and medical studies to help explain the connections between allergies and depression. Through the experiences of an imaginary patient Julie, the author acquaints us with the many facets of its manifestation – triggers of allergy as well as the response from our physique. The link between allergy and depression, and, the role played by our nature and constitution, like sensitivity, is then examined. Few other topics like, how to test for various allergies, identifying our regular toxins and  looking for hidden allergies are also discussed. Sherilyn concludes her book with concise summary of identifying, testing, and treating ones allergies.

Sherilyn Powers has succeeded in presenting a short treatise on, what is causing lingering, sometimes extreme, discomfort to many amongst us, in a clear and concise manner. The connection allergy has with depression as well as, the discussion on allergies in dormant form, opened me to new vistas of knowledge, and I am now in a better position to give ‘sage’ advice when someone expresses unknown or unexplainable difficulty or irritation. Rich endnotes and a list of resources make it easy for the reader to obtain further help and clarification, for whatever queries one may encounter. This is an excellent guide, it enables one to learn and understand how debilitating allergies can be, including the fact that symptoms of depression and other “crazy” reactions are in reality, energy or sensitivity symptoms.

Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader’s Favorite_____________________________

‘Waiting for a Miracle - Life in the Dead Zone’ by John Spencer begins by proclaiming that this is not a manual on how to grieve quickly or successfully. It gives a good account of the author’s life, making it a point to note the fact that he was having a greater share of ill luck all throughout. He then goes on to narrate the life of his daughter, Claire and the unending moments of joy, the bundle of joy brought to their life. With no clear symptoms, one day Claire is found without any signs of life. All resuscitation efforts fail, and she passes away. Rest of the book is covered by the efforts that went on in establishing a cause and John’s reflections.

This book reflects truly, the workings of the mind of a massively bereaved parent. The author’s description of the days with his daughter clearly reminds us of the bundle of happiness, a child of that age is bound to be. Eulogy for Claire contains some of the best lines of this book, which can boast of controlled expression of sentiments and disciplined use of language. Perhaps writing this book would have been a great consoling factor, in John’s fight with his personal loss. A little more description of the efforts taken to find the exact cause of this unfortunate event would have been of interest to the reader, while contributing handsomely in containing his grief. It would have enabled, as John says, “… to deal with the contradictory burden of wanting to be free of this overwhelming pain and yet needing it as a reminder of the child who died.

Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader’s Favorite_____________________________

‘Growing up Alaska: Memories of a Town, a Time, a Place, and a People Planted in a Little Pocket of Wonderful’ by Niki Breeser Tschirgi begins with her move to Alaska as a little girl, her car, truck, hundred pounds of wheat, and a grain mill in tow. How that was a dream come true for her dad, and how, she enjoyed the land at its pristine beauty. The more or less regular trips to her grandparents in Wisconsin too, during summer vacations, find its mention here. So is the excitement permeated by the Water Melon Days, games and dancing, the joy of unwrapping gifts for Christmas and the fun of ‘airdropped’ ice-cream. She becomes philosophical also, “the odds are good, but the goods are odd”.

From the opening of this book, where Niki alludes “the reader may roll their eyes to read another Alaska story”, I was looking for a nondescript memoir. On the contrary, ‘Growing up Alaska…’ by Niki turned out to be a surprise; it is an absorbing, vivid description of a life, not many people will get to live. Having spent some time in Russia, I can relate to the excitement things like ice-cream, that too, relishing it at subzero temperature, can bring to a gathering. She becomes nostalgic too while visiting Alaska later, writing, “Memories rushed back, and my childhood rested before my eyes as I took in the glorious view” This is an excellent read with a free flow of out of the world anecdotes, left me jealous of those who enjoyed their childhood in such surroundings.

Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader’s Favorite_____________________________

‘Dean Dixon: Negro at Home, Maestro Abroad’ by Rufus Jones Jr. is the biography of the first Black American to lead the New York Philharmonic and NBC Symphony orchestras in 1941. Rufus begins by tracing the family of Henry Charles Dixon from the closing years of nineteenth century to the birth of Dean Rolston Dixon in 1915. He goes on to give us a peep into his childhood, like how as early as a 13 year old, he had started Dean Dixon School of Music and his days with the Institute of Musical Arts. His growing stature and the admiration and help from influential people like Ms Roosevelt, which enabled him to perform at many prestigious venues not normally open to black conductors are described poignantly. He and a pianist, Vivian, fall in love and get married, she being white, adding to interesting consequences too. They make successful visits across Europe, and they divorce, he developing friendship with a playwright to eventually settle down in Sweden. This, their separation, another marriage and more visits are all entwined in the busy schedule Dixon kept throughout his life.

‘Dean Dixon: Negro at Home, Maestro Abroad’ by Rufus Jones Jr. is the story of an inspiring life. The author has shown a great degree of balance in covering the childhood, formative years and the eventful career of a world famous American, more or less equitably. This sense of justice is visible even when the discussion is about the racial injustice the maestro did suffer, or the love and affection he received from all races. One observation though, important events in the career and personal life of Dean Dixon are adequately covered except for the failures of marital life. Both the divorces hit me without warning.

Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader’s Favorite_____________________________

‘An Invincible Summer’ by Betta Ferrendelli starts with Jaime Monroe, a young prosecutor at the DA’s office, showing resolve as well as resourcefulness, in cracking a case of rape and bringing the errant fellow to justice. Her attention falls on Ashley Roberts, a girl with disabilities, who is being pressurized by her mother to undergo sterilization. Here too, Jaime adorns the role of a savior to produce some tense moments of court room drama with total disregard to personal prospects, in providing commendable defense to Ashley. More practical counsels prevail in the courtroom; the judge takes a decision to permit the mother to do what is good for her daughter. However, surprises are waiting to emerge; the story goes to a convolved, eventful and happy ending.

Excellent narration (I never felt the pages fly) and the presence of strong characters capable of evoking our heartfelt sympathy and admiration are the high points of this book. The suspense, drama and the larger than life image connected with the justice department is presented with an artful grace. All the events and protagonists are built with a good amount of attention and care that the reader, at no time, feels them separate from the plot. The issues related to the contentious area of eugenics are handled in this book rather commendably well, and in an uncontroversial manner. However I would like to note one thing, which rather protrudes because rest of the book is spotless. The narration, which is quite gripping from the very beginning, becomes rather sentimental towards the end.

Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader’s Favorite_____________________________

‘Passion to Move Mountains - The Oxcart Technique’ by Terry L. Fossum begins, by identifying passion as the single most important factor in success. Terry goes on to examine the trick we use to cheat ourselves ‘of the good we oft might win’– excuses. The will to confront failure is mentioned as another essential trait. Then comes the heart of this book, the oxcart technique, and together with that, the book offers many practical suggestions to the reader. And those cover almost everything that can have an impact on success, like, bringing changes into ones life, identifying goals, controlling ones weight or overcoming addiction. Exploratory questions and surveys are also given at vantage points in the book to enhance the reader’s understanding.

‘Passion to Move Mountains - The Oxcart Technique’ by Terry L. Fossum is a book that can offer invaluable assistance in ones quest for success. The ‘success techniques’ proposed by the books are quite simple, logical and looks effective. Like the approach suggested to overcome one of the most common reasons for failure, procrastination, which is to break the complete task at into convenient smaller chunks that can be easily monitored. Self examination questions and surveys given at many parts of this book make it easy to grasp the finer points and putting them into practice. Inspiring quotes given at many places enhance its value, like, “Failure is not falling down, but refusing to get up.” This is a well written book; it is a very good companion in ones journey to success.

Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader’s Favorite_____________________________

‘Shalako Rides: The Journey Begins’ by Brian Chute is a story set in USA of 2055. With the collapse of the union, many groups of states have joined together to form local collaborations. With the complete disruption of air travel, and the only communication route of highways being swarmed by thugs, armored, computer controlled trucks, which is still under trials, are the only hope. A truck like that transports some emergency equipment to Albuquerque, to be driven by Shalako, an expert driver, who is part of the trial team. The dangers they encounter on the way in the form of shooting gangs, and how they surmount those dangers form rest of the book.

‘Shalako Rides: The Journey Begins’ by Brian Chute looks at the future of the society in America through the eyes of s truck driver, Shalako, that too, mostly in connection with his job. Brian has given due allocation for advancement in the driving arena, duly accounting for artificial intelligence, voice controlled systems, strong armor and other facilities. However, when it comes to other areas of life referenced in the novel, like highway robbery, due allowance has not been made for possible improvement in their strategy or weapons. Barring this, this is a very good book, the tone and tenor of the narration befitting greatly, with the characters and plot, as exemplified by, “In combat, lady luck plays a huge role. And as with most ladies, some days she's a wonderful person. Some days she's just a bitch. Today, she had decided to be bitchy.”

Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader’s Favorite_____________________________

‘THE PLATE SPINNER CHRONICLES’ by BARBARA VALENTIN, is a humor spinner look at the travails we invite for ourselves both figuratively and otherwise. As the property of things spin, go, these recollections also do not have a beginning or an end, it covers the daily existence of the spinners’ lifetime. Helping her children in getting school uniforms, books or lunch, finding the days work schedule for herself, tending to a sick child, extending hospitality to surprise visitors or profusely apologizing for a prank 911 call, this memoir covers it all. She acknowledges the contribution of others too, like to her husband she says, “You have your own special way of turning the world so it is facing the way that I’m going”

‘THE PLATE SPINNER CHRONICLES’ is an excellent read. I can’t but agree with BARBARA VALENTIN, when she says, “I have mastered the fine art of faux focus, or appearing to be listening when I’m actually doing a dozen other things at the same time. All it takes is a little practice” This book is a good account of that and much more; making out what two children are saying simultaneously, handling tantrums together with a nutritious meal or, adjusting the trouser length with safety pins (which became a hit leading to unimagined consequences!). This is a book embedded with humor that catches the reader quite unexpectedly, which makes it more relishing. The author might also make a few grand old spinners of philosophy turn in their graves, when she says “I spin therefore I am.”

Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader’s Favorite_____________________________

‘START A SUCCESSFUL BLOG: Turn Your Hobby into Business’ by Jacob Lange is a guide to a blog that answers all the questions that can arise while planning to start a blog. Jacob starts with the most basic question – how to choose a topic for the blog, which will attract readers. Thereafter, he explains other aspects to consider, like, choosing a web host. How should one select a name for the blog, and what information is to be made available to others, through ‘About’ “Contact’ etc. The author also mentions the importance of building an audience and how that can be used for generating income. Ethical as well as legal issues like copyright, trade mark are also mentioned in this pocket guide.

Jacob makes blogging quite easy, for those who attempted blogging will know, the questions that are answered here are the ones that have been found to be dampening the blogging spirit. Jacob’s short guide will go a long way in easing ones preparations for launching a blog, both by choosing all the areas that needs to be attended to, and by avoiding nonproductive time and effort of learning from ones mistakes. (There won’t be a mistake, to learn from!) A list of suggested web hosts of great popularity, like wordpress, and their niche would have been meeting another crucial need for those disposed to following such a path. A helpful book, I wish I could read a book like this earlier; many unattended areas and sites with leftovers of blogging would have been avoided.

Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader’s Favorite_____________________________

‘Improve Your Productivity By Using Conditional Formatting in Microsoft Excel’ by John Smith explains what, conditional formatting is, and how that can multiply the information content of a spreadsheet. Use of different colors, selective highlighting and appropriate positioning of cells are some of the topics discussed in this book. As anyone worked on computers will appreciate, John begins this book with an important topic – how to reverse the formatting. Use of these techniques in finding duplicate information as well as, custom formatting rules is also discussed. The author has indicated availability of a formal training course with online discussions.

‘Improve Your Productivity By Using Conditional Formatting in Microsoft Excel’ is a book with tremendous potential in actual use. The capabilities of Excel, of selective highlighting etc, are of great use when it comes to effective information display. Also discussed is the utility of selective highlighting, in locating errors and discrepancies in a table. Though I have seen the use of spreadsheets quite extensively, instances of such advanced techniques of data presentation have been observed to be minimal. This book explains such aspects quite well, in a manner that is simple and easy to follow. The necessary procedural details and commands are shown in a clear and unambiguous manner to make the whole activity, completely error free. Screenshots are also shown to make it very user friendly. In short it is a very useful book; it taught me a few tricks I was not aware of, in exploiting Excel to its full potential and beyond.

Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader’s Favorite_____________________________

‘Supercharge Your Productivity’ by Chaiwat Theerasong begins with the mechanics of success, where principles like consistency in approach, thinking big etc are discussed. Keys to assign a desirable priority are then analyzed, followed by ways to get more from the existing strength. The need to develop a system to augment ones productivity is introduced, mentioning how, the modern gadgets could be of great use. While discussing need to stay focused, we are introduced to the habits of productive people. Procrastination, a known enemy, is taken head on, the author suggesting a bunch of actions in defense. Gainful outsourcing tips with a beautiful summary complete the book. A seven day action guide (spreadsheet) for practical analysis is also given along with the book.

‘Supercharge Your Productivity’ by Chaiwat Theerasong approaches the subject in a logical manner and outlines the principles successful people use to stay productive and become high achievers. Each of the points discussed are explained quite well, suggesting practically adaptable ways, where appropriate. For example, one of the suggestions offered for avoiding procrastination is to divide a big job into manageable chunks and closely monitor those small, easy jobs. The concise summary given in the book can serve, as a quick reminder for easy reference, as well as for prominent display. This is a very good book, a thorough dissertation on productivity and a guide for practical implementation of productivity enhancing techniques. And the supercharge productivity worksheet is of great help, both for gaining insight into the concepts and for adapting for actual use.

Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader’s Favorite_____________________________

‘How To Write a Simple Book Review: Calling All Readers’ by Allyson R. Abbott is a short book familiarizing one with book reviews, both as a reader and a reviewer. It tells us what a review is and why it is important. Different types of book review are then explained indicating the differences between them. The book, while giving a general idea as to how a review is to be written, suggests a few opportunities of cashing ones effort. A good list for further information, as well as, the addresses of many book bloggers included in this book shall be of great help.

I wish I could review ‘How To Write a Simple Book Review: Calling All Readers’ by Allyson R. Abbott, before I wrote my first review. (That was returned by the author for revealing too much!) Allyson has certainly made a few intelligent suggestions to make book reviews more interesting to the reader, while remaining easy on the reviewer. With the help of a few simple questions, like, “Is there anything in particular that you remember about the book that stands out or you feel confident about mentioning”, as well as by suggesting a few 'must not dos', or more of 'there is no point in doing', the author has given a clear direction for the reviewer. The recommendations given on star ratings too shall be of considerable assistance for rating and marking ones review. This thus is very helpful book, both for learning the basics of a review and as a handy reference.

Reviewed by Roy T James for Reader’s Favorite_____________________________

‘Potus Goes to Washington’ by T. Pascal begins with an elated president elect Potus, who was named thus (President Of The United States) for better chances of reelection, selecting the wrong speech at his swearing in. He stumbles, but starts with his busy schedule. A meeting with ‘the society of peanut growers’ and other illuminating discussions await him, he using such opportunities to talk about his pet projects – abolition of the awful atrocity called daylight savings and revamping the budget allocation system to enable each citizen to get his share directly. This and the other pearls of wisdom keep, all those around him flabbergasted, like, “If companies are forced to hire more women or pay them the same as men, they will actually hire fewer women because they can now hire men for an artificially lower price.”

‘Potus Goes to Washington’ by T. Pascal is an enjoyable read. Potus, who says “I need to be the defender of the land and execute the laws as they already exist, and to not create more laws that burden our great nation like a huge weight around its neck" is shown as trying to bring more sanity to American life. No need to keep setting clocks ahead and back two times a year. Give Alaska and Hawaii back to the indigenous peoples as a token of retribution. These are only some of the intrepid proposals from this fertile mind, bent on bringing radical changes to the country. I found this an interesting read with a tinge of humor throughout the book.