Tag: Book Reviews

Book review: ’10 Habits of Highly Successful People’ by Ansh Verma

’10 Habits of Highly Successful People’ contains essential information for people interested in personal development. Photo: Amazon

Ansh Verma is a researcher, author, and philosopher based in Dhanbad, Jharkhand (India). He researches almost everything that can be observed, felt and/or read, including technology, politics, divine, war, behavioral, engineering, investments, military, finance, and mathematics. Post graduation, Verma has almost 20 years of experience in thinking and making sense of the world. His new book “10 Habits of Highly Successful People” is an essential guide that breaks down the main essential habits and characteristics of successful individuals.

“10 Habits of Highly Successful People”  – Sometimes life can get so hectic that we often forget that there are easier and better ways to cope with life’s struggles. While there are other books out there that address personal development, I like this one because the author uses language that is easy to read and understand and the tone is not condescending at all. Because it is a short read, he gets down to the point without fillers like background stories or endless examples of how people have successfully implemented these habits into their lives. Since each habit is a chapter, it makes it so convenient to go back and re-read at your own pace. He also gives tips and key points on how to implement these habits into your daily routine.

The chapters are as follows:

Goal Setting
Time Management
Continuous Learning
Positive Mindset
Networking
Consistency
Embracing Failure
Health and Wellness
Financial Responsibility
Gratitude and Empathy
Bonus: Wisdom from Japanese Traditions

Some of these habits are well known, like Networking, Time Management, and Goal Setting, but some of them are more personal, like Positive Mindset and Continuous Learning. My favorite ones are Embracing Failure and Gratitude and Empathy. Embracing Failure – it is not easy to accept and learn from failure but it is an important part of the growth process because it creates resilience. We should not let failure define our worth or potential. Gratitude and Empathy – “highly successful individuals embody gratitude and empathy in their interactions with others.” We can do this by reflecting on the things we are grateful for and putting ourselves in other’s shoes. I highly recommend this book if you are interested in self help books about personal growth and development, not just success in terms of money and status.

*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.

Book review: ‘The Gravity Guide: Unveiling the Universe’s Hidden Force’ by Ansh Verma

‘The Gravity Guide: Unveiling the Universe’s Hidden Force’ is the new book by Ansh Verma. Photo: Amazon

Ansh Verma is a researcher + author + philosopher based in Dhanbad, Jharkhand (India). He researches almost everything that can be observed, felt and/or read, including technology, politics, divine, war, behavioral, engineering, investing, military, finance, and mathematics. Post graduation, Verma has almost 20 years of experience in thinking/making sense of the world. His new book “The Gravity Guide: Unveiling the Universe’s Hidden Force” is an exploration of gravity and the universe in general.

“The Gravity Guide: Unveiling the Universe’s Hidden Force” – In this excellent guide about all matters related to gravity, the author starts by asking readers if they have ever wondered about the role that gravity plays in nature and everyday life. By first defining how gravity works in “the gentle descent of a leaf” to simply helping us get out of bed in the morning, he creates excitement about the topic, leaving readers wanting to learn more. So he goes back to the beginning, for some interesting back history on how some of the greatest scientists, like Sir Isaac Newton, became involved in studying about gravity. He gradually moves on to explain the role of gravity in terms of the universe and how it affects the tides and how it keeps the universe together, leading to a discussion on black holes.

To wrap it all up, Chapter 7 has a Q&A section with questions such as: How does gravity hold the solar system together? and What’s the difference between weight and mass? No science book is complete without a few experiments, so Chapter 8 has practical experiments to help students not only see but feel the principles of gravity in action. Such experiments include The Pendulum Swing and Water Drops on a coin and make science come alive.

In layman terms, the author skillfully explains gravity and science so that everyone, even if they are not science experts, can understand. So if you if always wanted to know more about gravity but were afraid the topic would be too complicated, or don’t know where to start, give this book a try. You will never look at gravity the same way again.

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

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Book review: ‘Baby X’ by Kira Peikoff

‘Baby X’ is the new speculative fiction novel by Kira Peikoff. Photo: Amazon

Kira Peikoff has a degree in journalism from New York University and master’s in bioethics from Columbia. She works in biotech communications helping spread the word about transformative developments in the life sciences. Peikoff is a proud member of The Authors Guild, International Thriller Writers, and Mystery Writers of America. She is the author of “Mother Knows Best,” “Living Proof,” “No Time to Die,” and “Die Again Tomorrow.” In her exciting new thriller, “Baby X,” when any biological matter can be used to create life, stolen celebrity DNA sells to the highest bidder–or the craziest stalker. With a vivid imagining of the future, Gattaca meets Black Mirror in Kira Peikoff’s “Baby X.”

“Baby X” – In the near-future United States, where advanced technology can create egg or sperm from any person’s cells, celebrities face the alarming potential of meeting biological children they never conceived. The story begins when famous singer Trace Thorne grows tired of being targeted by the Vault, a black market site devoted to stealing DNA. Sick of paying ransom money for his own cell matter, he hires bio-security guard Ember Ryan to ensure his biological safety. 

Ember will do anything she can to protect her clients. She knows all the Vault’s tricks–discarded tissues, used straws, lipstick tubes–and has prevented countless DNA thefts. Working for Thorne, her focus becomes split when she begins to fall for him, but she knows she hasn’t let anything slip–love or not, his DNA is safe. But all bets are off when she and Thorne are confronted by Quinn, a pregnant woman who claims that Thorne is the father of her baby.

The story hooks you in from the first paragraph: “Across the café, Quinn watched the happy couple. They hadn’t noticed her yet. But they would soon.” Set in 2055, technology has advanced to the point where having babies the ‘normal’ way is a concept of the past. Children conceived this way are known as Unforeseens. Couples can now have their DNA collected and use it to create designer babies known as Elites. During the Selection process, embryos with disabilities and inherited diseases are passed on and the Selected go on to become a couple’s new child. This future also includes self driving vehicles and smart eye lenses that are used to answer the phone, email, and to use a computer. All of these technologies are so believable that they become secondary to the thrilling story of the three main characters: Quinn – a surrogate, Lily – an aspiring journalist, and Ember – a bio-security guard. The narration alternates between the three as their stories eventually meet in a final jaw-dropping plot twist.

Due in part to highly descriptive language: “Her trust was eroding like the ground in an earthquake, with aftershocks of panic jostling the foundation that remained,” the story flows smoothly. The well developed and relatable characters draw the reader in and each turn of the page brings one surprising twist after another. The author gives readers a chilling look into the future when biogenetics becomes the norm but is still ethically dubious and affects people’s everyday lives.

Overall, “Baby X” is a brilliant work of speculative fiction that raises concerns about genetic engineering while exploring the universal themes of family, love, power, and corruption. It is a definite must-read and recommended for readers who enjoy medical thrillers the likes of Robin Cook, Michael Palmer, and Blake Crouch.

“He never questioned his own willingness to cross the line. That had been the scariest part……The realization had shaken her faith in reality. It was like learning that the person she loved was an AI with no moral compass whatsoever.”

*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.

Book review: ‘Journey of Awakening and Higher Consciousness’ by Jane Kim Yu

‘Journey of Awakening and Higher Consciousness’ is the compelling new book by Jane Kim Yu. Photo: Amazon

Dr. Jane Kim Yu holds a Doctorate in Pharmacy from the renowned St. John’s University. From a young age, she dreamt of becoming an author and sharing her vision through artistic creation. This dream came true with the publication of her debut book, “Journey of Awakening and Higher Consciousness.” Jane’s work is a testament to her three driving passions: eloquent writing, intricate creative expression, and a deep-seated spirituality. These are demonstrated in her life and through her newsletter Soul Secrets, where she discusses hope, love, life, and the beauty of it all from our humanity to our divinity to the grace that guides our life. Her work bridges the gap between the empirical and the ethereal, resonating with readers and art aficionados alike. (Amazon, 2024)

Modern life, with its chaos and overwhelming noises coming from every direction, can leave us in a constant state of anxiety and longing for inner peace. Jane Kim Yu’s debut book is an inspirational journey into healing, higher consciousness, and discovering what makes us uniquely human. She focuses on themes like love and enlightenment to help readers rediscover themselves and reach the ultimate in higher consciousness. The journey into becoming whole again begins with a return to love itself because, after all, we are love incarnate. Love does not mean being in a constant state of nirvana and never experiencing pain, it merely means learning to process our emotions in an effort to get to know ourselves better.

The author shares her experiences, lessons learned, and how her personal journey transformed her and helped her find peace. Her tips for better living include meditation, prayer, walking (spending time in nature), getting involved in music and the arts, writing/journaling, and having a circle of trusted friends and mentors/professionals. I like that the tone of her writing is calm, soothing, and relaxing, without sounding condescending. Hopefully, this book will be released as an audiobook with her as the narrator. The language is poetic and easy to understand, so the words just flow through the pages.

Everybody’s journey is unique, but we all long for peace and living a life with purpose. If you keep an open mind, “Journey of Awakening and Higher Consciousness” can be an insightful guide to a more meaningful existence. Let the author’s wisdom and soothing narrative propel your own path of self discovery. Namaste.

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La vida moderna, con su caos y ruidos abrumadores que provienen de todas las direcciones, puede dejarnos en un estado constante de ansiedad y anhelo de paz interior. Este primer libro de Jane Kim Yu es un viaje inspirador hacia la curación, la conciencia superior y el descubrimiento de lo que nos hace singularmente humanos. Se centra en temas como el amor y la iluminación para ayudar a los lectores a redescubrirse a sí mismos y alcanzar lo último en conciencia superior. El viaje hacia el regreso a ser completo comienza con un retorno al amor mismo porque, después de todo, somos el amor encarnado. Amar no significa estar en un estado constante de nirvana y nunca experimentar dolor, simplemente significa aprender a procesar nuestras emociones en un esfuerzo por conocernos mejor.

La autora comparte sus experiencias personales, lecciones aprendidas y cómo su viaje personal la transformó y la ayudó a encontrar la paz. Sus consejos para vivir mejor incluyen la meditación, la oración, caminar (pasar tiempo en la naturaleza), involucrarse en la música y las artes, escribir en un diario, y tener un círculo de amigos y mentores/profesionales de confianza. Me gusta que el tono de su escritura es tranquilo, tranquilizador y relajante, sin sonar condescendiente. Con suerte, este libro se lanzará como un audiolibro con ella como narradora. El lenguaje es poético y fácil de entender, por lo que las palabras simplemente fluyen a través de las páginas.

El viaje de cada persona es único, pero todos anhelamos la paz y vivir una vida con propósito. Si mantienes una mente abierta, “Viaje al Despertar y a la Conciencia Superior” puede ser una guía perspicaz para una existencia más significativa. Deja que la sabiduría y la narrativa relajante del autor impulsen tu propio camino de autodescubrimiento. Namasté.

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

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Book review: ‘The Essential Guide to Chair Yoga for Seniors’ by Laura Garrett

‘The Essential Guide to Chair Yoga for Seniors’ an essential guide to better physical and mental well being. Photo: Amazon

Laura Garrett is a successful cookbook writer and hobby book author known for her ability to make even the most complex tasks approachable and enjoyable for beginners. She continues to inspire and educate people through her work, sharing her love of cooking and hobbies with a wider audience. Her new book “The Essential Guide to Chair Yoga for Seniors” is an essential guide to help readers, not just seniors, improve their overall physical and mental well being. (Amazon, 2024)

“The Essential Guide to Chair Yoga for Seniors” makes yoga accessible to seniors looking to improve the quality of their life regardless of their fitness level or mobility. In the first chapter Welcome Note from the Author, she states that as a wellness author and practitioner working with seniors, she “.. saw a need for an exercise form that was not only safe and accessible but also enjoyable and beneficial in the long term.” That’s when she discovered the benefits that chair yoga has for seniors. This book includes exercises to help improve your strength, mobility, and balance. More importantly, it also features personal stories from her students as proof of how chair yoga has helped them regain the ability to perform everyday tasks and in the long run, finding a renewed sense of independence and confidence.

The book is divided into nine chapters including The Benefits of Chair Yoga (strength, mobility, mental health), Mobility Exercises, Strength Exercises, Mindfulness Exercises, and Advanced Exercises. She takes readers through the entire process, from breath exercises, to warm up stretches, and the various exercises. The exercises are listed with illustrations, using plain language, and detailed step by step explanations that include duration and how many sets to do. The chapters on mindfulness meditation, breathing techniques, and relaxation practices, aside from being important parts of a holistic yoga practice, are especially helpful for seniors looking to manage stress, improve mental clarity, and create a sense of inner peace.

Overall, it is not just an exercise book, it is an essential guide for seniors looking to improve their overall physical and mental fitness. The last chapter, Additional Resources, has other resources to consider including YouTube channels, fitness programs, and other useful books, which makes it especially beneficial not just for seniors, but for caregivers who work with seniors. It is highly recommended for readers interested in incorporating yoga into their routines, whether they are seniors, have mobility issues, or just beginners.

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

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Book review: ‘The Girl from Wudang’ by PJ Caldas

‘The Girl from Wudang: A Novel About Artificial Intelligence, Martial Arts and Immortality’ by PJ Caldas. Photo: Amazon

PJ Caldas, a.k.a PJ Pereira, the author of multiple best-selling novels in Brazil, was named one of the most important writers of the 21st century by the Dictionary of Brazilian Literature. He published four books inspired by the mythology carried to the country by the African diaspora and reached the top five best-selling titles multiple times. PJ is also a martial artist with 40 years of experience in combat sports, including kempo, karate, tai chi, and Brazilian jiu jitsu. In 2023 he was named Jury President of the Artificial Intelligence Awards at the Art Director’s Club and curated a Global immersive exhibit of designers collaborating with AI, called ADC101+1, as a way to explore the use of this emerging technology as a creative tool. His new book “The Girl from Wudang” is a story about immortality, martial arts, and AI that will change the way you look at life, science, and the crazy times we are living in.

“The Girl from Wudang” – My Name is Tigress and I am immortal. This is my story. Embark on a mind-bending journey with Tigress as she navigates the confusing jumps of conscience that throw her between tender moments of her childhood practicing Tai Chi in China, the most violent cage fights in California, and a secret lab where scientists experiment with her brain. She was raised in a traditional Chinese setting, immersed in Tai Chi and the Dao, but life soon takes her to California where she gets involved in professional fighting, which she loves. The story begins with an internet Blackout and Tigress is watching it unfold on television in her Oakland home and then decides to go for a jog around the neighborhood. Trouble always seems to find her, or she goes looking for it, but either way, she gets involved in a brutal street fight. Then there is a flash and she is transported to another location. This is Tigress’ life, and she shares her experiences as well as the journey that completely changes her life.

In “The Girl from Wudang,” PJ Caldas gives readers a look into the life of a confident, strong, and self-reliant fighter who evolves from a street fighter to a selfless immortal being. She is a trained fighter, and at first she is smug, but her intent is to teach women to fight: “When it comes to fighting, here’s the difference between a guy and a girl: we know they underestimate us. And I love to make them regret that.” Searching for a way to alleviate her chronic headaches, she allows herself to be part of an experiment and that is where cutting edge technology steps in. Tigress is telling her story, so it is in the first person point of view and the narration, especially the fight scenes, are highly descriptive: “My heels smash his sternum, making a crack and a puffing sound, though momentum and idiocy keep pushing his hips forward.” At first, the footnotes seem out of place, but they become useful when explaining Chinese culture and the author’s thought processes and other background information. The action is fast paced but the sudden jumps in location can seem confusing and some of the fight action is bloody and violent. Regardless, this speculative science fiction novel expertly combines ancient traditions, modern day technology/science, spirituality, and martial arts. It is a must read for fans of cyberpunk and science fiction thrillers by William Gibson and Stieg Larsson.

“This strange dimension where I live, this place nerds call ‘the cloud’ isn’t the Dao of my ancestors. Though, from where I stand, I can hear everything.”

*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.

Book review: ‘Rethinking Transportation’ by Ansh Verma

‘Rethinking Transportation’ is Ansh Verma’s new book all about transportation. Photo: Amazon

Ansh Verma is a researcher + author + philosopher based in Dhanbad, Jharkhand (India). He researches almost everything that can be observed, felt and/or read, including technology, politics, divine, war, behavioral, engineering, investing, military, finance, and mathematics. Post graduation, Verma has almost 20 years of experience in thinking/making sense of the world. His new book “Rethinking Transportation” focuses on the topic of transportation, the problems in the current transportation system (congestion, pollution, and parking difficulties) and the need for innovative solutions.

“Rethinking Transportation” emphasizes the importance of reimagining transportation for a better future and discusses the potential for innovative solutions to address these problems. Ansh Verma introduces a personal patent in the automobile field and explains how this invention can revolutionize transportation, addressing many of the challenges previously highlighted. There is a detailed examination of the patent, explaining how it works and the potential impact it could have. He includes real-world case studies and success stories of innovative transportation solutions to demonstrate how these solutions have made a positive difference. The book maps out the steps required for the widespread adoption of this new mode of transport, including collaborations, regulations, and public perception. (Amazon, 2024)

The author begins with Introduction: Setting the stage where it is noted that population growth and urbanization have put a strain in the public transportation infrastructure. Chapter 1: The Problems with Traditional Transportation highlights the fact that the individual suffers the most due to longer commutes, limited access to reliable transportation, and the pollution that comes with increased vehicles on the road and therefore, “…traffic congestion perpetuates social inequity.” How can we address these problems? One solution is innovation. According to the author, in Chapter 2: The Call for Innovation, “Innovation in transportation plays a pivotal role in shaping a more sustainable and efficient future.”

The rest of the book is divided as such:

Chapter 3: A New Vision for Transportation
Chapter 4: Patent In Focus
Chapter 5: Benefits of the New Mode of Transport
Chapter 6: Overcoming Challenges and Resistance
Chapter 7: Case Studies and Success Stories
Chapter 8: The Path to Adoption
Chapter 9: Environmental and Societal Impact
Chapter 10: The Future of Transportation

Overall, not only does “Rethinking Transportation” presents an excellent examination of the problems with modern transportation, but it offers solutions. It is heavily researched and contains information that anyone interested in innovations in the transportation industry will find helpful. It is definitely a must read.

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

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Book review: ‘Cosmic Equilibrium: Exploring Balance in the Universe’ by Ansh Verma

‘Cosmic Equilibrium: Exploring Balance in the Universe’ is the new book by Ansh Verma. Photo: Amazon

Ansh Verma is a researcher, author, and philosopher based in Dhanbad, Jharkhand (India). He researches almost everything that can be observed, felt and or read, including technology, politics, divine, war, behavioral, engineering, investments, military, finance, and mathematics. Post graduation, Verma has almost 20 years of experience in thinking and making sense of the world. His new book “Cosmic Equilibrium: Exploring Balance in the Universe” is a captivating exploration of the intricate harmony and balance that permeates the cosmos.

“Cosmic Equilibrium: Exploring Balance in the Universe” – This thought-provoking book takes readers on a journey through the fundamental principles governing the universe, from celestial harmony to the laws of nature that underpin the cosmos. It delves into the timeless concept of yin and yang, revealing how opposing forces complement and balance each other on both cosmic and human scales.

From the birth and death of stars to the cyclical rhythms of life on Earth, the book examines the interconnectedness of all existence and the profound role of balance in shaping our universe. It bridges the realms of science, philosophy, and culture, offering insights into the diverse ways different societies have revered and integrated the idea of cosmic balance into their beliefs, ethics, and rituals.

This book also tackles the pressing issue of ecological balance on our planet and its broader implications for the cosmic equilibrium. It invites readers to contemplate their place in the vast cosmic tapestry and to reflect on the significance of balance in their own lives. With a holistic approach that combines scientific discoveries, philosophical reflections, and practical applications, this book serves as an enlightening guide to understanding the delicate equilibrium that sustains our universe and inspires us to find balance within ourselves and the world around us.

Balance is the central theme of this book, primarily yin and yang, the concept that “invites us to explore the eternal interplay of opposites that lies at the core of our reality.” It examines balance and harmony in everything from nature to human life. Each chapter is dedicated to a specific type of balance, including Chapter 2: Celestial Harmony, Chapter 3: Balance in Nature, and Chapter 5: Ecological Balance. Especially interesting is Chapter 4: Cultural Perspectives, which emphasizes how all cultures respect this sense of balance within their respective lifestyles.

The author does so much more than just educate readers on how balance works in nature, he also gives practical advice on how they can achieve balance in their personal lives. This includes balancing work and life, balancing technology and nature, and finding balance in consumption. In his Call to Balance in Chapter 8: Conclusion, he encourages readers to be mindful of their place in the universe to create a more balanced and sustainable future for everyone. As we are all connected, we all benefit in the end. If you are interested in an in depth study of the cosmos and the importance of balance and harmony, this is the book for you.

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

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Book review: ‘Maribelle’s Shadow’ by Susannah Marren

‘Maribelle’s Shadow’ is the latest novel by Susannah Marren. Photo: Amazon

Susannah Marren is the author of “Between the Tides,” “A Palm Beach Wife,” and “A Palm Beach Scandal” and the pseudonym for Susan Shapiro Barash, who has written over a dozen nonfiction books, including “Tripping the Prom Queen,” “Toxic Friends,” and “You’re Grounded Forever,” among others. For her nonfiction, she has been featured in the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, The New York Post, The Chicago Tribune, Elle, Marie Claire, and has appeared on national television including the Today Show, Good Morning America, CBS, CNN, and MSNBC. Barash has been a guest on national radio including NPR and Sirius Radio. For over twenty years she has taught gender studies at Marymount Manhattan College and has guest taught creative nonfiction at the Writing Institute at Sarah Lawrence College. Presently she is teaching at the Westport Writers Workshop. Her new novel, “Maribelle’s Shadow,” is a compelling tale of deception and family loyalty.

“Maribelle’s Shadow” – The only thing that spreads faster than gossip in Palm Beach is news of a mysterious death. As the editorial director of Palm Beach Confidential, Maribelle Walker knows what lurks beneath the glittering facade of the rich elite on Florida’s most glamorous coast. Or does she? The story begins when her adoring husband Samuel dies suddenly. She knows he is being unfaithful but she is hesitant about confronting him. With his death, secrets surface, including the secrets and lies between Maribelle and her sisters Caroline and Raleigh. Compounding the anguish, the authenticity of their socially ambitious mother Lucinda and lavish lifestyle of mansions, privilege and couture clothes is thrown into doubt. As their carefully constructed image unravels, each sister realizes she must fend for herself. The pathway out is steep and worth any risk – until the winner takes it all.

Even though it is fun to read about the rich and social elite, sometimes the characters are not very relatable, so it is hard to feel sorry for them when their lives take a downward spiral. Such is the case of the Barrow sisters. Thanks to their momager, they are always in society-lady mode and since they are obsessed with their social status, every decision they make, from how they dress to where they are seen and with who, is based on whether or not it will elevate or improve their status. The story is divided into three parts and the chapters are alternately narrated in the point of view of the sisters, so readers get an insight into their thoughts and characters. Because of this, the plot is character driven and the mystery behind Samuel’s death unravels slowly in the background even though it marks the beginning of the end for Maribelle. With highly descriptive language: “…she was trapped in mounds of seaweed, fighting to reach the shoreline,” the story flows naturally through the pages, making this an easy and fun to read novel. It also highlights the point that every family, regardless of social status, has secrets that will eventually come to light. Overall, “Maribelle’s Shadow” is a story of family and loyalty, and how far some people will go to hang on to what they have. It is recommended for readers who enjoy women’s fiction centered around socialites, power, and money.

“Don’t be so dramatic, Maribelle,” Lucinda said. “Samuel was another husband. They come; they go…..They’re fungible. Sisters, friends who are like sisters, aren’t.”

*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.

Book review: ‘Pandemia: Wading Through The Pandemic’ by Serene T. Marshall

‘Pandemia: Wading Through The Pandemic’ is the new book by Serene T. Marshall. Photo: Amazon

Serene T. Marshall was born on the island of Grenada, where she spent her formative years, and now lives on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. She has earned degrees in literature from Colgate University and the University of North Carolina Charlotte. Serene’s articles have appeared in the Boston Globe and the Charlotte Observer. Critical social issues facing the nation sprinkled with thrilling island folklore are craftily interwoven in her debut novel “Pandemia: Wading Through The Pandemic” – an account of one community’s experiences during the pandemic. It is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, and other online retailers.

“Pandemia: Wading Through The Pandemic” – At the beginning of the pandemic, Mel and a group of ladies are determined to tackle the critical social issues of the day. Tania must accept abrupt uncertainty and allow herself to wrestle with the viral infection thrown in her direction. The story begins with Uncle B and others gathering to watch the evening news on television that is updating the public on the number of COVID cases, testing mandates, and flight information. As the ladies gather at the local Caribbean restaurant, they worry about how immigrants will be treated due to all the mandates and lock downs going on, as they share family stories about how life was like for them years ago. All the while, citizens take to the streets in protest of the current social and racial injustices facing the nation. Meanwhile, in a rural hideout, a militia group plots a revolt against state and national leadership, unable to come to terms with a rapidly changing society. As the virus takes its global toll, a retired Mr. B takes the news in stride, while germaphobe Luanne flees the city in an attempt to protect her sanity and young family from the stark realities of the time. The book is divided into 34 Chapters with an Epilogue that updates what everyone has been up to since those times and the addition of programs to help the community, like the ‘Lifelines for Seniors’ project that helps with transportation and errands.

The growing pandemic woes, travel restrictions, mounting death tolls, and overall uncertainty and worry we felt at the beginning of the pandemic may seem distant now, but the author does an excellent job of reminding us of how it affected others and how universal the human condition is as it relates to pandemics. “Pandemia: Wading Through The Pandemic” describes one woman’s family and community experiences during those troubling times. It is narrated in the first person point of view for optimum effect and the story is heavily dialogue driven. In spite of the heaviness of the subject, it also contains humor to lighten the moments: “’Mask, what masks? It’s not carnival time yet,’ Uncle B chuckled, conversing with the screen.” With relatable characters and language that is easy to understand, we get an insight into what was happening in other communities aside from the national headlines. The author mentions the social issues of the time like shootings of black people and healthcare worker burnout, and oxygen shortages and how they affected neighbors and friends. Highlights include Chapter 27 during Christmas time when people were visiting Santa and Christmas shopping, while a few blocks down, there were food lines and people were dealing with food insecurities and Chapter 34 when the community came together and held a memorial service for several people as well as a fundraiser. While we may not want to revisit all this today, future generations might. Overall, “Pandemia: Wading Through The Pandemic” is a reminder that we are all connected as humans and are capable of coming together when times get tough, regardless of our differences. It is a must-read and recommended for fans of novels based on real events as it pertains to pandemics, sociology, and human relations.

“In due time, persons and countries who choose to dictate whose life is dear and who is not, those who demean, discard, and dispose of life at will, shall have a seismic reckoning.”

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

Rating: 4 out of 5.