Action thriller King of Killers. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
In today’s movie news, if you like action thrillers, King of Killers is now available on Blu-ray™ and DVD. Written and directed by Kevin Grevioux, the cast includes Alain Moussi (Nobody), Marie Avgeropoulos (“The 100,” 50/50), Georges St-Pierre (Captain America: The Winter Soldier), Stephen Dorff (Blade, Old Henry), Frank Grillo (Captain America: The Winter Soldier), and Kevin Grevioux (Underworld). (EG-PR, 2023)
Based on a graphic novel by writer-director Kevin Grevioux, King of Killers follows former Agency hit man Marcus Garan (Alain Moussi) as he attempts to unravel the mystery behind a tragic incident. When offered a $10 million contract to eliminate the world’s greatest assassin, Marcus travels to Tokyo to meet the client (Frank Grillo), but discovers other professional killers have been invited as well. Now Marcus and the others must confront this deadly, mythical assassin or die trying.
‘Your Heart Was Made for This’ is the upcoming new book by Oren Jay Sofer. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Oren Jay Soferteaches Buddhist meditation, mindfulness, and communication internationally. He holds a degree in Comparative Religion from Columbia University, is a Certified Trainer of Nonviolent Communication, and a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner for the healing of trauma. Born and raised in New Jersey, he is the author of several books, including the best-selling title “Say What You Mean: A Mindful Approach to Nonviolent Communication” and the latest “Your Heart Was Made For This: Contemplative Practices for Meeting in a World in Crisis with Courage, Integrity, and Love.” His teaching has reached people worldwide through online communication courses and guided meditations. Oren lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with his wife and son, where he enjoys cooking, spending time in nature, and home woodworking projects. “Your Heart Was Made For This: Contemplative Practices for Meeting in a World in Crisis with Courage, Integrity, and Love” will be released November 21, 2023 and is available for pre-orderfrom Amazon.
“Your Heart Was Made For This: Contemplative Practices for Meeting in a World in Crisis with Courage, Integrity, and Love”- from the bestselling author of “Say What You Mean” and meditation teacher comes a pragmatic guide to living a life of meaning and purpose in a time of great social, environmental, and spiritual upheaval. Through touching stories, insightful reflections, and concrete instructions, Sofer offers powerful tools to strengthen our hearts and nourish the qualities that can transform our world. Each chapter guides you to cultivate a quality essential to personal and social transformation like mindfulness, resolve, wonder, and empathy. You will learn ways to find more choice and freedom in life, strengthen focus, sustain energy, and accomplish goals, identify burnout and take steps to renew yourself, imbue your daily activities with clarity and vitality, and respond more effectively to collective challenges.
“Your heart was made for love: for connection, belonging, and meaningful relationship with other people, beings, and the earth. Your heart was made to give and receive; to know joy, purpose, and freedom. All of this is possible for you and for each of us. Yet painful emotions, ignorance, and oppressive conditions disconnect us from our hearts’ potential. The flow of this love has encountered obstacles from the beginning, but perhaps never more so than now. Our ancestors’ village was not the global village of the twenty-first century with its seemingly infinite complexities and pressures, nor did we evolve to engage with social media algorithms or constant alerts of tragedy. How do we reclaim our birthright to love while navigating a complex world in crisis? How do we make love our guide?
The Buddha long ago taught that we can shape our inner lives: “Whatever the mind frequently thinks upon and ponders, that will become its inclination.” Our thoughts, feelings, and intentions grow into habits and over time settle into our character. Contemplative practice roots itself in this power to mold the heart and thus renew ourselves. Today, we call this “neuroplasticity.” If we do not shape the heart, the world will do it for us, and the world does not have our highest welfare in mind.
The tide of modern society floods us with incessant pressures, demands, and desires. On a personal level, urgency, confusion, and fear spin us in a blur, grind us down, and sap our energy. On a global level, war, social unrest, and a growth-driven economy sweep through our communities, setting us on a course for violence and ecocide. It takes steady, continuous effort to swim against these currents, make choices based on our values, and turn the tide together.
We are living through a mass extinction of our own making. The climate crisis, the rise of fascism and the erosion of democracy, the COVID-19 pandemic, the ongoing trauma of injustice and oppression rooted in colonialism—these are our present reality. What will be our legacy? We are capable of beauty, but we destroy; we embody elegance, but are soaked in blood. Some days, it’s a lot just to get out of bed in the morning.
And, our actions matter, individually and collectively. Every action plants a seed. Some seeds bear fruit in this lifetime, while others lie dormant for generations. We harvest the fruit of our ancestors’ actions—for good and for ill— and our choices today shape the future.
How do we meet our challenges and choose wisely? To truly meet something is to encounter it with awareness, enter into relationship with it, and respond appropriately. How we respond when we contact pain, sorrow, and injustice? Do we become broken, embittered, lost, or frozen? Do we lash out in anger, fear, or hatred, adding fuel to the fire? Or are we able to find the balance and clarity to meet the suffering of our world with tenderness, wisdom, and skillful action?
Responding effectively depends on training the heart and developing inner resources. We may not recognize it, but we are always practicing something. Our thoughts, words, and actions shape us. Each one creates a trickle of water flowing downhill, carving a channel in the fertile soil of our heart and mind. If you practice feeling anxious, stressed, and agitated, you etch those grooves deeper. If you practice patience, kindness, and ease, with every moment you grow stronger. In fact, these heart qualities can become your default orientation so that, when hardships arise, you draw not on old reactions but on new strengths.
Like an ecosystem recovering its innate balance, when we stop adding pollutants and seed the proper species, the process of awakening begins to flower in our hearts. Nourishing the heart is joyful. Remembering our potential and aligning ourselves with our deepest vision for life can happen in any moment, and can be filled with lightness and beauty. This is contemplative practice.
Such practice cultivates reflective, critical awareness and explores meaning, value, and purpose. It includes the arts, ritual, storytelling, relationship, and meditation, and it can provide the strength and clarity necessary to engage skillfully with the immense problems of our times— to mourn what we have lost, heal what we can heal, and transform what calls for change. If we are to adapt and grow, if we are to survive and create a better world, we need inner resources to meet our challenges.”
Author Oren Jay Sofer. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Shake Shack teams up with DreamWorks Animation’s Trolls Band Together to launch Trolls-themed trio of holiday shakes. Photo: Shake Shack, used with permission.
To celebrate the release of DreamWorks Animation’s new feature film Trolls Band Together on November 17, Shake Shack is teaming up with this new chapter in the blockbuster musical Trolls franchise to offer a limited-time shakes menu for fans across the U.S. The trio of shakes is inspired by the leading characters in the film – Poppy, Branch and new character Viva – as well as traditional holiday flavors that we know and love. The new menu items are accompanied by Trolls-themed holiday packaging including a takeout bag, cup and tray liner, and are now available at Shake Shack locations nationwide (stadiums and airports not included). (Shake Shack, 2023)
The trio of Trolls-themed shakes include:
Poppy’s Sugar Cookie Shake: Hand-spun sugar cookie frozen custard, mixed with cookie dough pop candy, topped with whipped cream and cotton candy. Starts at $7.49
Branch’s Chocolate Peppermint Shake: Hand-spun vanilla and chocolate frozen custard, mixed with mint fudge, topped with whipped cream and mint candy crunch. Starts at $7.29
Viva’s Cinnamon Roll Shake: Hand-spun cinnamon roll frozen custard, swirled with gold frosting, topped with whipped cream and gold confetti. Starts at $7.29
“We’re excited to partner with Universal Pictures and DreamWorks Animation to bring the world of Trolls from the big screen to life in our Shacks,” said Jay Livingston, Chief Marketing Officer at Shake Shack. “It was so much fun taking inspiration from these colorful, beloved characters to create a trio of shakes and can’t wait for our guests to get a taste of Trolls magic this holiday season, sparkles included.”
Shack fans in Los Angeles will also be able to enjoy a Trolls-themed experience at the West Hollywood Shack at 8520 Santa Monica Blvd., complete with larger-than-life Trolls characters on the Shack’s roof, giveaways and an interactive musical experience with music from the new feature film.
This partnership is building on the success of Shake Shack’s collaboration with Nintendo and Illumination for The Super Mario Bros. Movie which was released in 2023. Brand partnerships is an area where Shake Shack is increasing its marketing focus in the years to come, especially as it expands its footprint across the U.S. and around the world.
Shake Shack serves elevated versions of American classics using only the best ingredients. It is known for its delicious made-to-order Angus beef burgers, crispy chicken, hand-spun milkshakes, house-made lemonades, beer, wine, and more. With its high-quality food at a great value, warm hospitality, and a commitment to crafting uplifting experiences, Shake Shack quickly became a cult-brand with widespread appeal. Shake Shack’s purpose is to Stand For Something Good®, from its premium ingredients and employee development, to its inspiring designs and deep community investment. Since the original Shack opened in 2004 in NYC’s Madison Square Park, the Company has expanded to over 470 locations system-wide, including over 305 in 32 U.S. States and the District of Columbia, and over 165 international locations across London, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Singapore, Mexico City, Istanbul, Dubai, Tokyo, Seoul and more.
Skip the line with the Shack App, a mobile ordering app that lets you save time by ordering ahead. Guests can select their location, pick their food, choose a pickup time and their meal will be cooked-to-order and timed to arrival. Available on iOS and Android.
‘Nolanverse: Exploring the Greatest Illusion in Movie History: An Unauthorized New Analysis of The Dark Knight Rises’ by Robert E. Eliot. Photo: Robert E. Eliot, used with permission.
In the world of superheroes, Batman is arguably one of the most famous one in the DC Universe. There have been numerous movies made to bring him to the big screen, including The Dark Knight trilogy. This set of Christopher Nolan Batman movies consists of Batman Begins, The Dark Knight, and The Dark Knight Rises. While The Dark Knight Rises was an exciting movie, the ending left us with more questions than answers. If you are a fan of the trilogy, today’s new book release might interest you: “Nolanverse: Exploring the Greatest Illusion in Movie History: An Unauthorized New Analysis of The Dark Knight Rises.” Robert E. Eliot delves deep into the movie and examines it from every angle in an effort to fully understand the meaning of that enigmatic ending. It is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other book retailers.
Robert E. Eliot is also the author of “Mi Negro Amigo: An Unauthorized New Analysis of Tarantino’s The Hateful Eight.” His new book “Nolanverse: Exploring the Greatest Illusion in Movie History: An Unauthorized New Analysis of The Dark Knight Rises” analyses the ending of that final Batman movie. He lives and works in the great state of Washington and looks forward to writing additional nonfiction books in the future. (Robert E. Eliot, 2023)
“Nolanverse: Exploring the Greatest Illusion in Movie History: An Unauthorized New Analysis of The Dark Knight Rises.” – The Dark Knight Rises holds a distinguished place in twenty-first-century cinema as the monumental conclusion to Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight trilogy. And as millions of moviegoers around the world know, one of the most glaring aspects of the film is the way that it concludes—with the type of sensational ending that seems engineered for generating plenty of discussion beyond the movie theater.
For too long, fans have had to live with a highly unsatisfactory explanation of that ending—an explanation that is content to simply twist facts to suit theories. But what if we were to let good old-fashioned common sense have a say about the fate of Gotham’s legendary hero the Batman at the height of the film’s chilling climax?
What if the grand finale to one of the most important motion picture trilogies of all time is seriously different from what audiences have long supposed? What if there is still so much more to discover?
“A breath of fresh air for fans of the Dark Knight trilogy who have long pondered the mysteries surrounding the fate of Batman in the film’s climax. … A truly fascinating read. … If you’re a fan of Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight trilogy or simply enjoy thought-provoking film analysis, then definitely get yourself a copy of Nolanverse today.” – K.C. Finn, Readers’ Favorite
“Eliot’s work forays beyond a standard analysis and really places the grand finale of the Dark Knight trilogy under a microscope, expertly examining every angle while bringing in numerous Christopher Nolan ventures, like Memento and Inception, to probe the mind of the iconic filmmaker. … With almost surgical precision, Eliot guides readers through … a thought-provoking debate on whether … Nolan has pulled off perhaps the greatest illusion in cinematic history. While Eliot starts with the ending, his critique is incredibly comprehensive.” – US Review of Books
Low Water Bridge Band announces sophomore LP Back to the Valley. Photo: Low Water Bridge Band.
Forged by firelight picking, Low Water Bridge Band’s romping, stomping, country-grass Americana is not for the faint of heart. Since coming together in 2020, they have gone from barnstorming the Shenandoah Valley to festival stages along the East Coast and now, to the delight of their rapidly growing fanbase, the band has announced the follow up to their latest LP, Midnight in Virginia. On November 17, Low Water Bridge Band—Logan Moore (guitar, vocals), Alex Kerns (bass, vocals), Riley Kerns (drums, background vocals), James Montgomery (lead guitar), Justin Carver (pedal steel, banjo),and Rudy Bzdyk (fiddle, trumpet, keyboards)—will release Back to the Valley, an all new, ten song LP. (IV-PR, 2023)
Low Water Bridge Band shared Back to the Valley’s opening track, “Siren Of The Shenandoah,” a shapeshifting ode to the great river that created the valley from with the band was created. “This song came to light after a full moon, overnight canoe trip down the Shenandoah River,” says Moore, the song’s writer and lead singer. “I kept hearing a lonely fox following us along the riverbanks shouting her terrifying scream. I imagined it was the sound of the mythological siren crying out to lure me into the mighty Shenandoah River.” Moore’s imagination went from there, fleshing out the lick-laden song that deftly switches back and forth between a full-time train beat and a funkier, half-time groove. Encompassing everything that Low Water Bridge Band fans are already hip to—clever songwriting, complimentary musicianship, and the ability to creatively freeze a place and time in song—“Sirens Of The Shenandoah” is the perfect lead off track for this next chapter in the burgeoning band’s career.
Back to the Valley was produced by band members Riley Kerns and Logan Moore and recorded and mixed by Kerns at BerryTone Sound Recorders in Berryville, Virginia. Micah Howard contributed vocals on “She Don’t Answer;” “Dear Lord” and “Small Town Affair” feature background vocalists Laura Steinmetz and Jessica Mitchell; and Jake Smith plays baritone saxophone on “Hope It’s You.”
Back to the Valley track list: Siren Of The Shenandoah Whiskey Dark Slow Down 600 Reasons Hope It’s You Clarke County Clay Place On A Hill Dear Lord Small Town Affair She Don’t Answer
‘The Ultimate Guide You Need to Making Homemade Dog Food and Treats’ is the new book by Sarah Smith Hansen that contains easy, delicious, and nutritious recipes for dogs of every breed. Photo: Amazon
Dogs have become a big part of our lives, and now more than ever, we take care of them and treat them like family. This includes being careful about what we feed them even if it means making homemade meals especially for them. If you care about your dog’s wellbeing, including what ingredients are best for them, understanding their nutritional needs, and which harmful ingredients to avoid, today’s new book release is just for you. “The Ultimate Guide You Need to Making Homemade Dog Food and Treats” by Sarah Smith Hansen is every dog owner’s resource guide to taking proper care of your animal companion. It is available now on Amazon.
Sarah Smith Hansen is a dedicated advocate for animal welfare and nutrition. With a background in animal science and over a decade of experience in the pet food industry, she has witnessed the importance of providing healthy, homemade food for dogs. Sarah’s passion for improving the lives of pets and their owners led her to write a comprehensive guide on crafting nutritious meals for dogs. She resides in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and two beloved dogs, finding inspiration in nature and her love for cooking. Through her work, Sarah aims to empower pet owners to provide the best nutrition for their furry companions. Her new book “The Ultimate Guide You Need to Making Homemade Dog Food and Treats,” is about providing a comprehensive resource for dog owners who want to ensure their pets have a happy and healthy life through proper nutrition. (Sarah Smith Hansen, 2023)
“The Ultimate Guide You Need to Making Homemade Dog Food and Treats” – this book addresses several common concerns and motivations dog owners might have, such as the desire for a more cost-effective and healthier alternative to commercial pet food, concerns about the safety and impact of commercial pet food, and the complexities of preparing homemade dog food.
The author, Sarah Smith Hansen, who is an advocate for animal welfare and nutrition, shares over 170 homemade dog food recipes and provides guidance on portion sizes for different dog breeds. The book also covers common mistakes to avoid, answers various questions about making homemade dog food, offers budget-friendly options, and provides tailored recipes for dogs with specific health conditions or dietary requirements.
Readers can expect to learn about ingredients to avoid, the importance of vitamins and minerals, and how to balance macronutrients in their dog’s diet. The book is designed for dog owners of all cooking skill levels, even those with no prior cooking experience. It aims to empower readers to take control of their dog’s nutrition and create nutritious and delicious meals and treats.
In summary, the book is a comprehensive guide that equips dog owners with the knowledge and recipes needed to make homemade dog food and treats that promote their dog’s well-being and happiness.
Ofrenda: Juan O’Gorman and a Legacy of Muralism will be on view through November 30, 2023. Photo: UNAM San Antonio.
In celebration of Día de los Muertos, the San Antonio Museum of Art (SAMA) is delighted to announce a special collaboration with the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México San Antonio (UNAM San Antonio) to present Ofrenda: Juan O’Gorman and a Legacy of Muralism. The ofrenda, or altar, will pay homage to the remarkable Mexican artist and architect known for Confluence of Civilizations in the Americas, the iconic mosaic mural he created for Hemisfair ’68. (San Antonio Museum of Art, 2023)
The ofrenda will be on view in SAMA’s Great Hall from Thursday, October 26 to Thursday, November 30.
Five UNAM students—Jhosep Bonillas, Rodrigo Gael Martínez, Pabel Erubey Medina, Diana Valeria Nápoles, and Mariana Tovar de Alba—were part of the team that submitted the winning proposal to build an altar at the UNAM San Antonio campus in a competition at the School of Architecture at UNAM in Mexico City. SAMA then invited them to build a complementary altar at the Museum. The altar will be placed next to Carlos Rosales-Silva’s mural Pase Usted, as his practice is greatly influenced by Mexican Muralism and O’Gorman.
The students built the altar with assistance from the Museum’s staff using traditional flowers such as cempashúchil (marigolds) and incorporate beer bottles as a nod to SAMA’s history as the old Lone Star Brewery. They also created an elaborate tapete (tapestry) using traditional materials.
Juan O’Gorman’s artistic contributions have left an indelible mark on the world of muralism and architecture. In his mural work, O’Gorman depicted various pre-Hispanic and Mesoamerican cultures, as well as elements of popular culture and everyday life in Mexico. A masterpiece, Confluence of Civilizations in the Americas celebrated the historical and cultural ties between Mexico and the United States. Today, the 2,600 square foot mural adorns the façade of the Lila Cockrell Theatre at the Henry B. González Convention Center.
The UNAM San Antonio will host a series of programs to commemorate O’Gorman’s legacy, including the Altar de Muertos dedicado a la vida de Juan O’Gorman on view from October 26 to November 30 at UNAM San Antonio: 600 Hemisfair Park. San Antonio, TX 78205 (210) 222-8626.
The San Antonio Museum of Art serves as a forum to explore and connect with art that spans the world’s geographies, artistic periods, genres, and cultures. Its collection contains nearly 30,000 works representing 5,000 years of history. Housed in the historic Lone Star Brewery on the Museum Reach of San Antonio’s River Walk, the San Antonio Museum of Art is committed to promoting the rich cultural heritage and life of the city. The Museum hosts hundreds of events and public programs each year, including concerts, performances, tours, lectures, symposia, and interactive experiences. As an active civic leader, the Museum is dedicated to enriching the cultural life of the city and the region, and to supporting its creative community.
‘Nadia Boulanger: War Years in America and Her Last Decades’ is the new release from James Whipple Miller. Photo: Chestnut Hill Press
Nadia Boulanger was a French music teacher and conductor. She taught many of the leading composers and musicians of the 20th century and performed occasionally as a pianist and organist. If you are interested in learning more about this highly influential music teacher, check out this new biography from James Whipple Miller – “Nadia Boulanger: War Years in America and Her Last Decades” which includes 227 letters exchanged over four decades between Boulanger and her close friend and disciple Ruth Robbins. It is available through Chestnut Hill Press.
Author James Whipple Miller was a professor of Comparative Literature and Classical Chinese at UC Berkeley. He served as editor- in-chief of financial and technology publications in Silicon Valley, leading to relationships with investors and technical innovators, in turn leading to decades in start-up business finance and directorships on many boards. He now invests his time in editing and writing projects far removed from finance, business, and Silicon Valley. His new book “Nadia Boulanger: War Years in America and Her Last Decades” is the first biographical study of the great French master teacher’s last half of life. (Chestnut Hill Press, 2023)
“Nadia Boulanger: War Years in America and Her Last Decades” – From this unique record between an extraordinary teacher and her student, we gain deep and new insights into Boulanger’s beliefs and feelings, and how they changed as she faced the challenges of aging. Another intimate perspective on Boulanger comes from her favorite post-war student Idil Biret who vividly describes her resistance to Boulanger’s rigidity.
It was released on October 19 and has received rave advanced reviews:
“Cause for celebration!”-Thomas Wolf, Liner Notes Magazine
“This wonderful collection of letters and well-researched commentary will fascinate musicians, music lovers, or any reader interested in the life and legacy of a 20th-century musical titan!” -Clare Longendyke, Classical Concert Pianist
“A labor of love that ably explores the relationship among three women and their shared love of music.”-Kirkus Review
“Invaluable insight into a less-known period of Nadia Boulanger’s life, helping fill out a comprehensive picture of her later years.”-Nicholas Phan, Opera Lyric Tenor
“As a performer of her works, I have long admired Nadia Boulanger. This four-decade exchange of letters reveal her beautiful qualities as a teacher and person.”-Miriam K. Smith, Classical Cellist
Chestnut Hill Press is an independent publisher dedicated to promoting global understanding through distinctive new books in literature, art, and music.
Ferris wheel during the daytime. Photo: Laura Cros/Unsplash
Everyone wants a day out every once in a while. Most of the time, they’ll do this with their friends, and they wouldn’t want to do the same things over and over again. Why would you want to keep going to the movies when you could try an escape activity for groups and bring all your friends? There’s something to be said about organizing fun days out, but you want it to be a fun one for everyone so make a point of talking to the group and getting opinions from everyone! With some great ideas for a day out, you shouldn’t have much to worry about.
You’ll end up having an amazing time, and your friends should enjoy themselves, too. It could even let all of you bond, which is always worth the effort. If you’re planning a night out soon, it’s worth diving into a few great options.
Ideas For A Day Out:3 Great Options
1. Wine Tasting
Wine tasting is one of the more unique ideas for a day out, and it can be much more fun than you would’ve thought. A wine tasting tour only takes a few hours, and you could end up having a nice time. It’ll even be a great way to spend some time out of the house.
Some of these tours even take place outdoors, so you can take in a bit of nature while you’re at it. No matter what, you could end up having an amazing time, and it might even be something you’ll want to do again and again.
2. Go To The Theater
You would’ve thought about going to the cinema with your friends, and it can always be a decent option. Sometimes, it’s worth going with something a little different, though. The actual theater can be a much better option. You might end up having a much better time when you visit it.
There’ll be plenty of plays and other events to consider going for, all of which could be interesting. Some of them could even be relatively interactive, and you could have a back-and-forth with the performers. These pantomimes can often be quite enjoyable, and they’ll be more fun than you’d think.
3. Go To An Amusement Park
Not all ideas for a day out have to be adult oriented. Instead, it can sometimes be worth focusing on your inner-child. You could end up having much more fun because of it. Going to an amusement parkis one of the best ways you can do this. You’ll end up having an amazing time.
With the various rides and activities you can try, there’s no reason why you and your friends shouldn’t have fun. If there’s an amusement park near you, then it’s well worth spending a few hours there with your friends.
Ideas For A Day Out:Wrapping Up
With the right ideas for a day out, you shouldn’t have a problem having a great time with your friends. You wouldn’t have to worry about boredom, and you’ll end up getting closer to them. It could even be worth trying a few ideas.
You’ll end up making it a regular event while making sure you don’t get bored when you’re out and about. You’ve no reason not to consider a few great options. With a little bit of effort, you’ll end up having an amazing time.
‘Embracing God in the Right Perspective With the Right Perspective In Him’ by Chris Tham. Photo: Amazon
Chris Tham, a firm believer in the Gospel of Light through Christ Jesus, believes that the greatest joy in life is to discover man’s truthful identity in God and that every living soul in the history of mankind is a child of God. In this book, he writes about how we can discover our true identity in the spiritual realm and how our identity relates to God.
When it comes to religious studies, there are many books out there that can guide readers in their search for a deeper understanding of the Bible. What makes this one different is that it is an intense study of Christianity, God, and everything in between. At over 500 pages and 14 chapters such as Who isGod and Who Are You and Who Are The Evil Spirits?, it is not meant to be read straight through; it is a reference guide meant as a companion in studying the Bible. It is heavy in Bible verses and references and often compares biblical themes such as sin, hell, and heaven according to the Bible, the Torah, and the Quran, different religions, and even offers atheist and agnostic views. The goal here is not to convert anyone, because the author is not in preacher mode. He is merely informing readers about intellectual concepts such as personal identity and destiny using biblical verses in a language most readers can understand. Most importantly, it “serves as a good text material for interfaith dialogue.” Some of his views are unconventional and may ruffle some feathers, so it helps to read it with an open mind. For example, he gives the undeniable historical fact that Germany was a Christian country under Adolf Hitler and questions why this was, if “the spirit of God desires for peace and not bloodshed among mankind.”
One highlight is Chapter 3 Knowledge Versus Truth which ponders the question that if we have stubbornly held onto strong beliefs with a closed mind all our lives, how can we differentiate between “is it knowledge or is it the truth.” Overall, it is a heavily researched teaching tool with graphics and bulleted lists that can be useful even for anyone who wants to delve into these topics. It is recommended for readers who like instructional books about the Bible, Christianity, and spirituality and appreciate different viewpoints.
“Before we came into this world, were we given the option to choose which country we wanted to be born in or which family we wanted to be born to? Therefore, some of us are predestined to go to heaven and some are predestined to end up in hell? Once again, is this the divine biblical truth?”
SA Examiner 