Truth, Lies, and the Deep Blue Hour: A Gripping Psychological Thriller by Peter Stamm

‘In a Deep Blue Hour: A Novel’ is the new novel by Peter Stamm. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Psychological thrillers are some of my favorite books. They go into the inner workings of characters’ minds, exploring their thoughts, emotions, and motivations. This genre often blurs the line between reality and perception, creating complex, unpredictable narratives that challenge readers’ understanding of truth. The appeal lies in the deep emotional engagement it fosters, inviting readers to confront their own psychological experiences and question the nature of identity, memory, and consciousness. By emphasizing internal conflict, psychological thrillers offer a more intimate, introspective experience compared to traditional plot-driven stories. This immersive exploration of the human psyche resonates with readers seeking to understand themselves and the complexities of human behavior.

From Other Press, the latest addition to acclaimed Swiss author Peter Stamm’s impressive body of work, “In a Deep Blue Hour: A Novel” will be released on March 18, 2025. It is available for pre-order. (Other Press, 2024)

“In a Deep Blue Hour: A Novel” – A documentary filmmaker uncovers the secrets of an enigmatic author in this subtly enthralling novel from “one of Europe’s most exciting writers” – (New York Times Book Review).

For days, documentary filmmaker Andrea and her team have been waiting for Richard Wechsler in his Swiss hometown. During their first shoots in Paris, the famous writer had not wanted to reveal much about himself, and now the whole film threatens to fail.

In the narrow streets and alleys of the village, Andrea searches for traces of Wechsler’s life, contrary to their agreement. But it is not until she starts reading his books again that she discovers a clue to a childhood sweetheart who might still be living there. An old love who influenced his whole life, but whom no one ever knew about.

Written with Stamm’s trademark subtlety and devastating precision, “In a Deep Blue Hour: A Novel” is a captivating work of psychological fiction perfect for lovers of Jon Fosse’s “Septology,” Jenny Erpenbeck’s “Kairos,” and Stamm’s previous work. In this elusive novel, Stamm explores the meeting point between reality and fiction. I hope to stay in touch with you about possibilities for it.

Peter Stamm is the author of the novels “The Archive of Feelings,” “The Sweet Indifference of the World,” “To the Back of Beyond,” “All Days Are Night,” “Seven Years,” “On a Day Like This,” “Unformed Landscape,” and “Agnes,” and the short-story collections “It’s Getting Dark,” “We’re Flying,” and “In Strange Gardens and Other Stories.” His award-winning books have been translated into more than forty languages. For his entire body of work and his accomplishments in fiction, he was short-listed for the Man Booker International Prize in 2013, and in 2014 he won the prestigious Friedrich Hölderlin Prize. He lives in Switzerland.

About the Translator: Michael Hofmann has translated the work of Gottfried Benn, Hans Fallada, Franz Kafka, Joseph Roth, and many others. In 2012 he was awarded the Thornton Wilder Prize for Translation by the American Academy of Arts and Letters. His “One Lark, One Horse: Poems” was published in 2019, “Where Have You Been? Selected Essays” in 2014, and “Selected Poems” in 2009. He lives in Florida and London.

“In a Deep Blue Hour: A Novel” by Peter Stamm • Translated by Michael Hofmann
Other Press Trade Paperback Original
On-Sale Date: March 18, 2025 • Price: $17.99

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Exploring Love and Choices in ‘Something Better’ by Diane Parrish: A Reflective Review

‘Something Better’ is the debut novel by Diane Parrish. Photo: Amazon

“Something Better” by Diane Parrish centers around Ruth, David, and Annabeth. Ruth and David are a seemingly happy couple living in the suburbs. After Annabeth’s parents die in a tragic car accident, their lives intersect in ways that will test all three of them.

Annabeth’s father, Jack Brady, was a close friend of David’s, so when Annabeth arrives in town, David and Ruth help her out during her time of grief. Ruth is a lawyer who dreams of starting a family, but then she gets the opportunity of a lifetime at work with a new client, Brian Bishop, in San Francisco. She decides to take the new client despite it being on the West Coast and having to spend time apart from David.

David is a successful landscape designer but he’s having trouble tackling all the work, so he hires Annabeth to work in the office. David grows closer to Annabeth while Ruth develops an attraction to Brian and before it’s all over, relationships will be tested. Each must decide if they will remain faithful or risk it all for the promise of ‘something better.’

Review:

This debut novel by Diane Parrish is best described as literary fiction combined with contemporary women’s fiction. Set in a small Connecticut town, it follows the journey of Ruth and David, as they navigate a turbulent time in their life while they struggle with loss, betrayal, and the search for inner peace.

Parrish’s writing is poetic and descriptive, offering readers a glimpse into the emotional landscape of someone struggling with difficult truths about love, redemption, and the choices we make. It explores the main theme of forgiveness without offering easy answers but allowing the characters to struggle with their decisions, creating a narrative that feels authentic and relatable.

The subtle interplay of faith—both religious and personal—adds another layer to the story, prompting readers to reflect on their own beliefs and the role of grace in healing. The narrative is from multiple points of view and the language is simple and easy to understand. While the plot of strained marriages is far from original, the character exploration is intriguing.

Overall, “Something Better” is a thought-provoking work of literary fiction that aside from forgiveness, also deals with the complex themes of faith, family, love, identity, and human resilience. Parrish gives us a story about the human capacity to change, to forgive, and to hope—no matter how impossible those actions may seem. This novel is a quiet, powerful meditation on life’s challenges and the possibility of redemption. It is recommended for readers who enjoy character driven literary fiction with religious undertones.

“…he would have to learn to live with the silence of his shame, his own frailty, his unspeakable desire, all the things that made him unworthy to call himself Ruth’s husband, not good enough for anyone who loved him, let alone himself.”

*The author received a copy of this book for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Exploring the Final Frontier of Crime: The Risks and Realities of Criminal Activity Beyond Earth

‘Space Piracy: Preparing for a Criminal Crisis in Orbit’ by Marc Feldman and Hugh Taylor. Photo: Amazon

Space exploration offers tremendous opportunities for scientific discovery and technological advancements, but it also brings potential risks. As nations and private corporations compete for control over space resources, the possibility of space-related crime and corruption increases. The privatization of space may lead to monopolies, enabling unethical practices. Piracy in space, including the hijacking of satellites or spacecraft, could emerge as new threats. Furthermore, the militarization of space might escalate tensions between countries, potentially leading to conflicts or even war. While space exploration holds vast promise, these negative consequences must be carefully managed to prevent harm to humanity.

The Center for the Study of Space Crime, Piracy, and the Governance’s new book “Space Piracy: Preparing for a Criminal Crisis in Orbit” is a comprehensive exploration of humanity’s potential for criminal activities in outer space. It will be released on February 11, 2025. (Center for the Study of Space Crime, Piracy, and Governance, 2024)

“Space Piracy: Preparing for a Criminal Crisis in Orbit” is a forward-thinking resource that considers, analyzes, and provides solutions to the influence of the dishonorable side of humanity in the realm of outer space, where potential for crime, corruption, piracy, and war increases as the exploitation of space as a commercial resource continues to develop. This book blends the authors’ knowledge with that of subject matter experts to deliver a holistic understanding of criminality in space and help readers broaden their horizons beyond their own area of specialization.

Some of the topics explored in this insightful book include:

  • Space hacking, from software, data, network, and hardware risks to existing cybersecurity standards and practices in space
  • Criminal organizations that might pursue criminal activities in space, including cartels, kidnappers and devicenappers, and governments
  • Laws and treaties relevant to space crime, such as the Communications Satellite Act and the Outer Space Treaty of 1967

Filled with practical, thought-provoking knowledge and guidance, “Space Piracy: Preparing for a Criminal Crisis in Orbit” earns a well-deserved spot on the bookshelves of professionals working in the best of humanity’s institutions, including law and intelligence services, finance, insurance and risk management, corporations, and the sciences, who seek to combat what the worst of us may be dreaming up.

“This is a serious meditation on a space future that is all too plausible. Anyone concerned with building a safe and robust space economy―lawmakers, policymakers, law enforcement, CEOs, space – security officers, and the USSPACECOM and US Space Force commanders―should read this book. A well-researched and fascinating synthesis of the history and current-day piracy, privateering, organized crime and syndicates, cyber-crime, private security companies―and how and why they might plausibly move to space.” – PETER GARRETSON, Senior Fellow in Defense Studies, American Foreign Policy Council and Author of “Scramble for the Skies: The Great Power Competition to Control the Resources of Outer Space” and “The Next Space Race: A Blueprint for American Primacy”

The publication of the book is part of the launch of the Center for the Study of Space Crime, Piracy, and Governance (CSCPG). The Center is an independent, nonpartisan think tank whose purpose is to serve as a policy resource for government officials and business executives on issues related to space governance, sovereignty, commerce, law, crime, and piracy. 

CSCPG was recently featured in Space War in reference to its paper on the potential for a hostage crisis in space. 

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Tech and Tensions: ‘Sentience Hazard’ and the Fight for AI Supremacy

‘Sentience Hazard’ is the exciting new science fiction thriller by Alexandru Czimbor. Photo: Reader Views

Speculative fiction books exploring science fiction and artificial intelligence (AI) captivate readers by presenting futuristic worlds where technology evolves beyond human control. These narratives often explore the ethical dilemmas, power dynamics, and societal shifts brought on by AI, sparking questions about humanity’s future. Themes such as sentience, autonomy, and the consequences of machine learning challenge readers’ perceptions of technology and its role in society. AI-driven speculative fiction offers thrilling, thought-provoking plots, while engaging readers’ imaginations and fears about a rapidly advancing technological landscape. This blend of innovation and existential uncertainty is what makes the genre so compelling.

I recently read and reviewed “Sentience Hazard” by Alexandru Czimbor for Reader Views and highly recommend it for fans of speculative fiction centered around artificial intelligence.

Alexandru Czimbor is an award-winning author who was born and raised in Transylvania, Romania during the oppressive communist regime of Nicolae Ceaușescu. He has lived in the United States since 2001 and spends his summers in Europe. Alexandru taught at a Romanian university, worked in the software industry, and has been an executive since 2011. He has a master’s degree in computer science and studied at UTCN Cluj-Napoca and ETH Zürich. In his latest book is “Sentience Hazard,” a tense global standoff looms as China’s superior AI technology threatens to tip the scales of power. (Barnes & Noble, 2025)

“Sentience Hazard” – Set in 2053 and amidst the chaos of an AI standoff, Zhèng Yang, a renegade Chinese scientist unveils vital intel, sparking a race against time. As the US scrambles for a solution, François DeSousa, a maverick French genius and Professor Ian Ndikumana, a Scottish-African professor offer controversial expertise. Love, sacrifice, and ingenuity converge in a battle for humanity’s future.

The US and Chinese artificial beings, developed with radically different principles, share one essential quality: their cognitive abilities go well beyond those of any human being. The future of the world hangs in the balance. Can humanity survive the clash between two sentient forces of its own creation?

Finalist in:

  • 2024 Cygnus Science Fiction Awards
  • 2024 Independent Author Network Book of the Year Awards
  • 2024 American Writing Awards
  • 2024 Literary Global Book Awards

Recipient of:

  • Literary Titan Book Award
  • Outstanding Creator Award
  • Pinnacle Book Award
  • Firebird Book Award
  • Book of the Earth Award
  • 2024 BREW Science Fiction of the Year

‘Change of Heart’: Cristina LePort Blends Medicine and Mystery in Her Latest Thriller

Cristina LePort’s new medical thriller ‘Change of Heart’ will be released in February. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Medical thrillers blend the high-stakes tension of thrillers with the intrigue of medical science. These novels often involve intense situations, such as dangerous viruses, unethical experiments, or life-and-death medical dilemmas, creating a gripping sense of urgency. The appeal lies in the combination of suspense, intellectual challenge, and emotional investment. Readers are drawn to the complex characters—doctors, patients, and scientists—navigating moral gray areas, and the fast-paced plots keep them on the edge of their seat. Additionally, the real-world connections to medical advancements or crises make the stories feel both thrilling and plausibly terrifying, heightening their impact.

These are some of my favorite novels to read and Robin Cook’s were some of the first ones I picked up. Since then, there’s been Michael Palmer, Patricia Cornwell, Kathy Reichs, and Tess Gerritsen. A couple of years ago, I read Cristina LePort’s debut novel “Dissection” and was thrilled to have another such author on my must-read list. Her next one, “Change of Heart,” comes out in February and takes readers into the shadowy underbelly of organ trafficking, revealing the lengths to which people will go to secure life-saving transplants. So if you’re a fan of gripping medical thrillers, I wholeheartedly recommend her novels. “Change of Heart” will be released on February 4 and is available now for pre-order on Barnes & Noble.

Cristina LePort, MD is a renowned cardiologist and a respected author, known for her compelling medical thrillers that explore the high stakes of medical crises and moral conflicts. Born in Bologna, Italy, she new resides in Southern California and combines her medical expertise with her narrative prowess to create stories that are informative and engaging. (Meryl Moss Media Group, 2024)

“Change of Heart” – In the bustling heart of New York City, a young medical student’s life is tragically cut short, though her heart continues to beat, holding the promise of life for another. Detective Kirk Miner is called to the scene and quickly uncovers a chilling conspiracy involving organ donations and high-stakes crime. As the investigation unfolds, Miner realizes the case is far more complex and dangerous than it initially seemed.

Enter FBI Agent Jack Mulville, who steps in to supervise Special Agent Charlotte Bloom as they join forces with Miner. Together, they unravel a web of corruption, revealing that Amy Winter’s death is connected to a ruthless organ trafficking ring. Amy Winter, a promising pre-med student, is found dead under mysterious circumstances. Her death triggers an investigation that pulls Miner, Mulville, and Bloom into a labyrinth of deceit and desperation. As they dig deeper, they discover that Amy’s heart is not just a donor’s gift but a coveted prize in a deadly game controlled by criminals willing to kill to keep their secrets hidden. Amidst the danger, they face moral dilemmas and personal risks, pushing them to their limits as they strive to protect innocent lives and dismantle a powerful criminal network.

“Change of Heart” is a gripping medical thriller that intertwines the intricacies of modern medicine with the relentless pursuit of justice. Cristina LePort, M.D., masterfully combines her medical expertise with edge-of-your-seat storytelling, delivering a novel that will keep you turning pages long into the night. Dr. LePort is an accomplished physician with a passion for weaving medical knowledge into thrilling narratives. Her extensive background in medicine lends authenticity and depth to her stories, making the Miner & Mulville series a unique blend of fact and fiction.

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Layers of Emotion in ‘The Bella Vista’: Emma Ruth Rundle’s Poetic Journey

Emma Ruth Rundle announces her debut poetry book “The Bella Vista.” Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Poetry books offer a powerful blend of emotion, imagination, and expression in concise, rhythmic forms. They invite readers into intimate worlds where language dances and meanings are layered, offering both intellectual stimulation and emotional resonance. The beauty of poetry lies in its ability to distill complex experiences into few words, allowing for deep reflection and personal interpretation. Whether through vivid imagery, striking metaphors, or simple truths, poetry books captivate readers by fostering a sense of connection to universal themes, emotions, and the human condition, making them timeless treasures.

There’s a new poetry book coming out February 11, 2025 by Emma Ruth Rundle – “The Bella Vista.”

“rip up this book, my love / i wrote it for you” So opens Emma Ruth Rundle’s book of poetry, entitled “The Bella Vista.” The multidisciplinary visual artist and musician has now released six solo albums over the past decade to commercial and critical acclaim. The release of “The Bella Vista” will mark her literary debut. (another side, 2024)

With “The Bella Vista,” Emma Ruth Rundle turns to language as the best and perhaps only tool suitable to express, in her words, “the tenderness and brutality of romantic love.” The collection of poetry is a concept, an addiction memoir, a family tree, and a love letter all at once—to music, mistakes, and humanity; to cross-country drives and other artists and the long road to finding oneself.

“Written on the road over the course of a year, ‘The Bella Vista’ is equal parts travel-log, love story and journal of dark existential reflection. It is what I have spent the last two years of my creative life working on and I am both relieved and excited to finally be sharing it.”- Emma Ruth Rundle

“The Bella Vista” will be published by Unnamed Press and available at bookstores and online on February 11, 2025 – pre-order here. To coincide with the book, Rundle will release a limited edition audio album consisting of minimalistic, contemplative piano sketches à la Harold Budd of whom the book was named in honor of, and was highly influential to “The Bella Vista.” Copies will be limited to 300 and available in a signed first edition hardcover + exclusive vinyl bundle here.

Early praise for “The Bella Vista”

“Emma Ruth Rundle’s debut collection of poems, The Bella Vista, is a gorgeous, fierce, and devastating account of romantic love. Rundle has found a new form for her prodigious lyrical gifts; here is a lucid and haunting collection that moves with a kind of dream logic to ‘summon the unseen.’” – Deborah Landau, author or Skeletons and Soft Targets

“Emma Ruth Rundle’s The Bella Vista is more than a poetry collection—it’s a memoir charted by stars, an autobiographical scrapbook and lyrical compass that helps us navigate our everyday lives through its wisdom, beauty, and fingerprint specificity.” – Brandon Stosuy, author of Sad Happens and the Make Time for Creativity series

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From Western Woman to Saudi Wife: A Review of ‘Jeddah Bride’ and Its Powerful Insights

‘Jeddah Bride’ is the new memoir by Patricia Bonis. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Memoirs offer a unique and personal perspective on life, drawing readers into the intimate experiences of an individual’s journey. Unlike autobiographies, which often focus on public achievements, memoirs highlight specific moments, emotions, and reflections, making them more relatable and human. Their appeal lies in their authenticity and vulnerability, allowing readers to connect with the author’s struggles, triumphs, and growth. They offer a sense of shared experience and a reminder of our common humanity, sparking empathy and introspection in readers.

“Jeddah Bride” is a new memoir out this month by Patricia Bonis that recounts her experiences with Rahman Abbar, a man from Saudi Arabia.

Patricia Bonis runs her own interior design firm and has designed the homes, offices, and embassies of CEOs, ambassadors, and international financiers for over 30 years. She has an equally long standing and passionate career as an equestrian, actively competing in the World Equestrian Festival, the Hampton Classic, and numerous other horse shows across America. Her first book is “Jeddah Bride,” a memoir about a smart, free-spirited girl who fell in love with Rahman Abbar, son of a wealthy Saudi Arabian family

Synopsis:

“Jeddah Bride” – When Rahman suggested they marry, it was the happiest day of her life. But Patricia was not prepared for life as a Saudi woman-a life spent looking through curtains and veils at the world outside, a life that of necessity was curtailed and protected from the toxic masculinity of the culture, a life that, for an American girl used to sneaking out and hitchhiking, was dangerous and frightening and foreign. She was not prepared to give up all her freedom: freedom to drive herself, to go where she wanted when she wanted, to read books and listen to music she wanted, even to give up making a career for herself. (Meryl Moss Media, 2024)

After years in Jeddah, Patricia and Rahman moved to America, where Patricia gave birth to two children and started her own successful career. She thought their family was complete and that they would stay in America to raise their children in freedom and security.

Until Rahman starts talking about leaving America and moving back into the jet-set lifestyle-regardless of Patricia’s needs and wishes. After previous disappointments, Patricia is ready to divorce him and strike out on her own. But she is not ready for her children to be kidnapped.

Review:

The story begins in 2002 as Patricia is reuniting with Karim, her oldest son, after fourteen harrowing years of looking for him. He was just a boy when their father took him and his sister Sultana out of the United States during a court appointed visitation. She tracks down Karim and introduces herself to a grown man and proceeds to attempt to get back into his and Sultana’s life.

From there, it goes back to the 70s when a young Patricia meets Rahman while out partying one night. She is instantly drawn to his magnetic personality and exotic good looks and finds it impossible to resist the fast life filled with parties, money, and connections. But not everything that shines is gold, and when she makes a trip to Jeddah to meet his family, she is introduced to a world that she had only heard about. Despite the culture shock, she continues the relationship but the years ahead will alter her life in ways she could have never seen coming.

In “Jeddah Bride,” Patricia Bonis offers a deeply personal and poignant memoir that chronicles her life as an American woman married to a Saudi man. The book captures her journey of navigating cultural divides, familial expectations, and her evolving identity while living in Saudi Arabia.

The narrative is introspective and engaging, providing readers with a window into the complexities of cross-cultural marriage and the challenges of living in a society with strict cultural norms. She contrasts the freedom of her American upbringing with the constraints of Saudi society, particularly as she experiences the difficulties of life in Jeddah. Her honesty about the emotional and personal sacrifices required to integrate into her husband’s world is compelling, yet she never shies away from addressing the difficulties and moments of isolation she faced.

The language is down to earth and even though there are some tense moments, the tone doesn’t get too dark and depressing. Since the focus is on her early experiences, the chapters on her divorce and custody battles are brief and towards the end.

Overall, “Jeddah Bride” is an honest portrayal of marriage and culture clash as well as an exploration of identity and belonging. It’s an insightful and heartfelt memoir that will resonate with readers intrested in the complexities of cross-cultural relationships, making it a thought-provoking read for those curious about the nuances of love, tradition, and change. A fast and easy read, it is recommended for fans of women’s memoirs.

“Never wavering in my efforts to reach my children in Saudi, I did attempt to rebuild my life. I had no choice. Fourteen years is a very long time and I needed to soothe the ever present pain in my heart.”

*The author received a copy of this book for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

‘The Serviceberry Way’: Lessons in Self-Discovery and Connection

Learn how the serviceberry can guide you towards growth and gratitude in the new book by Kim Lewitt. Photo: Amazon.

Serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.) is a small deciduous tree or shrub known for its sweet, edible berries. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and K, it supports immune health and skin repair. The berries have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. Additionally, serviceberries are a good source of dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health. Native to North America, serviceberry also provides various ecological benefits, attracting pollinators like bees and birds. Its leaves, bark, and roots have been traditionally used for medicinal purposes by indigenous peoples.

“The Serviceberry Way: Gratitude, Growth, and DIY Practices for Everyday Living” is the new book by Kim Lewitt where she writes all about its uses for health and better living.

It is a comprehensive and enlightening guide to the often-overlooked serviceberry plant. Through this book, Lewitt introduces readers to the rich history, versatility, and numerous benefits of the serviceberry, making a compelling case for its place in gardens and landscapes.

It is divided into sections that explore the plant’s history, from its use by Indigenous peoples for food and medicine, to its growing popularity in modern gardening. Lewitt provides an in-depth look at how to cultivate serviceberries, offering practical advice on planting, caring for, and harvesting this hardy shrub. The author emphasizes the plant’s adaptability to various climates and its ability to thrive in a wide range of conditions, making it a sustainable choice for gardeners.

There are two major parts:

Part One: Lessons from Nature
Includes sections such as The Hidden Life of Plants, The Wisdom of Animals, and The Indigenous Perspective: Connection and Community.

Part Two: DIY Practices
Includes sections such as Preparing Your Garden for Serviceberries, Pest and Disease Management, and Cooking with Serviceberries: Recipes and Ideas.

Highlights include:

Part One: Lessons from Nature
Lessons from the Serviceberry: Adaptability and Resilience – it explains the characteristics of the serviceberry and the lessons it teaches us, like Thriving in Diverse Environments and Rapid Recovery and Renewal.

Part Two: DIY Practices
Crafting with Serviceberries and Other Uses – it shares uses for serviceberries beyond the usual jams and pies, such as making natural dyes and other craft ideas.

A big plus for me is the celebration of the many uses of the plant. Lewitt covers everything from incorporating the berries into delicious jams and pies to using the tree’s wood for crafting. The book serves as both a practical gardening resource and a celebration of the serviceberry’s cultural significance.

Overall, for plant enthusiasts, gardeners, and anyone interested in sustainable living, “The Serviceberry Way” is an invaluable resource that highlights the enduring charm and utility of this underrated plant.

“Adaptability is about finding ways to thrive in less-than-ideal circumstances. Just as the serviceberry makes the most of the resources it has, we can learn to be flexible, assess our surroundings, and use what’s available to us creatively and efficiently.”

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 5 out of 5.

Unlocking the Mysteries of the Brain: What ‘Out of Your Mind’ Reveals About the Human Brain

‘Out of Your Mind: The Biggest Mysteries of the Human Brain’ will be released in January. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

The search to understand how the brain works has been a long-standing scientific endeavor, exploring the complexities of cognition, emotions, memory, and consciousness. Neuroscience and psychology have made significant strides, yet much remains unknown about the brain’s intricate processes. Books such as “The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat” by Oliver Sacks delve into neurological disorders, offering insight into brain function. In “How to Change Your Mind,” Michael Pollan explores neuroplasticity and the impact of psychedelics. Meanwhile, Daniel Kahneman’s “Thinking, Fast and Slow” illuminates decision-making and cognitive biases, offering a deeper understanding of human thought processes.

If you’ve always wanted to learn more about the inner workings of the brain but found the subject too complicated, there’s a new book coming out next month that aims to make it more accessible to all readers.

Out of Your Mind: The Biggest Mysteries of the Human Brain” by Jorge Cham and Dwayne Godwin goes on sale January 28th, 2025. It’s an introductory journey into your own mind—if your inner voice had a Ph. D. in brain science, cracked jokes, and drew cartoons. (Penguin Random House, 2024)

Why do you love? Why do you lie? What makes you happy? Every single thought you have comes from one place: your brain. But what makes it tick? How much of it have we decoded, and how much of it remains an impenetrable mystery?

Join best-selling author and online cartoonist Jorge Cham and neuroscientist Dwayne Godwin on a deep dive into the fascinating world of the human brain, in which they will explore questions such as: What is consciousness? Where is you in the brain? And do we have free will? All while illuminating everything we know (and DON’T know) about one of the most complex objects in the known universe.

Think of it as conversation-ammunition for your next cocktail party, or a quick fascinating read while you’re in the bathroom (don’t worry, the chapters aren’t that long). Centered around questions we all ask ourselves at some point but don’t usually have answers to, “Out of Your Mind” is an illustrated book about the brain that isn’t too brainy. Playful, accessible, and deeply insightful, it’s the one brain book that’s truly accessible and suitable for all brains.

Some of the questions that are addressed include:

  • Where is the mind?
  • Why do we love?
  • Why do we hate?
  • Will an AI take my job?
  • What are the limits of memory?
  • What is addiction?
  • What is consciousness?
  • What makes us happy?
  • Do we have free will?
  • What happens when we die?
  • What makes us human?

JORGE CHAM is the Daytime Emmy-nominated and best-selling cartoonist creator of the popular online comic strip “Piled Higher and Deeper” (known as PHD Comics – phdcomics.com). He is the co-creator, Executive Producer and Creative Director of “Elinor Wonders Why,” one of the highest-rated animated shows on PBS Kids, and the co-author of two popular science books: the best-selling and award-winning “We Have No Idea: A Guide to the Unknown Universe and Frequently Asked Questions about the Universe,”as well as the children’s book “Oliver’s Great Big Universe.” Jorge is also the co-host and co-creator of “Daniel and Jorge Explain the Universe” a popular podcast and radio show. He obtained his Ph.D. in robotics from Stanford University and was an Instructor and Research Associate at Caltech from 2003-2005. He is originally from Panama.

DWAYNE GODWIN is a neuroscientist, an educator, and an academic leader who is a professor in the Department of Translational Neuroscience and served as graduate dean at the Wake Forest University School of Medicine in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. His research centers on the cellular basis of abnormal brain rhythms, including active projects on calcium channel function, epilepsy, and traumatic brain injury. His goal is to use emerging insights about the brain to develop treatments and potential cures for neurological diseases. His science outreach includes Mind in Pictures, cocreated with Jorge Cham for Scientific American Mind, as well as blogs for the Society for Neuroscience and the Museum of the Moving Image.

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Laugh, Learn, and Love: ‘Sis Boom Baa!’ Brings Joy to Young Readers

Dragons, dinosaurs, and daring adventures await in the delightful new children’s book ‘Sis Boom Baa!’ Photo: Amazon

Children’s books captivate young readers through vibrant illustrations, engaging stories, and relatable characters. They spark imagination, curiosity, and emotional growth, often teaching valuable life lessons in an entertaining way. The use of simple language and rhythmic patterns makes them accessible to early readers, while interactive elements like rhyme, repetition, and humor keep children engaged. By exploring diverse themes such as friendship, kindness, and adventure, they create a sense of empathy and creativity. Their appeal lies in the magical combination of fun and learning that resonates with young minds.

Ready to explore a world where laughter meets adventure? Presenting ‘Sis Boom Baa!,’ a whimsical children’s fantasy adventure designed for ages 6-12 and beautifully illustrated by the talented Bill DeOre. This enchanting tale is bound to captivate young minds and tickle funny bones while imparting timeless values. (WooGirl Public Relations, 2024)

Cappy McGarr is an Emmy-nominated co-founder of the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor and the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song. He’s one of few people to be appointed to the Kennedy Center by two different presidents. His writing has been published in the New York Times, Politico, and USA Today. His memoir, “The Man Who Made Mark Twain Famous,” is available at retailers everywhere.

Chandler Dean is a Brooklyn-based comedian and speechwriter whose satire has been featured in The New Yorker, McSweeney’s, Reductress, and Hard Drive. He is a director at the speechwriting firm West Wing Writers, where he co-leads the firm’s humor practice. He has previously worked for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Late Night with Seth Meyers, and Full Frontal with Samantha Bee.

‘Sis Boom Baa!’ – This is the tale of a kingdom once saved by Princess Lil’ Cap and Sir Hud the Brave…

Princess Lil’ Cap and Sir Hud the Brave live a happy, peaceful life in a beautiful castle. But what happens when they’re betrayed by an old friend and banished from the kingdom? To get back home, they’ll learn how to improvise, accept help from others, embrace bravery, and believe in themselves.

Join Princess Lil Cap and Sir Hud the Brave as they navigate a thrilling journey to return home after being betrayed and banished from their kingdom. They encounter dragons, dinosaurs, and trolls that challenge their courage and impart life-changing lessons.

Enjoy a tale that hilariously pokes fun at classic fantasy tropes while offering deep conversations between parents and children. It embraces crucial virtues such as bravery, empathy, confidence, humility, and forgiveness throughout this rollicking adventure.

Parental Advisory: This book features awesome creatures like dragons and dinosaurs. You should only read this book to your child if they enjoy awesome things.

Grade Level: 4 – 6