Tag: books

‘Ruby & Onyx’: A Comprehensive Review of Summer Grace’s Latest Work

‘Ruby & Onyx’ is a coming of age fantasy novel by Summer Grace.

Summer Grace is a debut author, with “Ruby & Onyx” as the first part of a series. Summer is passionate about writing stories that inspire as much as they entertain, and she hopes that this book will inspire more women to believe in themselves and embrace their inner strength. (Amazon, 2024)

“Ruby & Onyx” – Trapped in the remote village of Carcera, Radya dreams of an impossible life: a life outside of the magical barrier, a life of love and adventure, and a life free from the menacing red eyes haunting her nightmares. Those delusions are just dreams, until those red eyes turn corporeal and reveal a fate foretold from ages past. Forced to reckon with an arranged marriage to the Prince of Mendacia, who irritates her as often as he quickens her pulse, Radya must navigate an unfamiliar world of magic, lies, and deception. The closer she gets to the truth, the more people get hurt. Each revelation comes at cost, threatening to ignite a war between Kingdoms and lovers. Will Radya choose this new life, despite the profound repercussions? Or will she follow her dreams, which connect her to yet another life unknown?

Review:
The story begins with Radya noticing a strange man on the other side of the barrier that surrounds the small village where she grew up. She knows he shouldn’t be there and he’s asking too many questions and without any warning, he rushes the barrier, only to be reduced to ashes. This experience haunts here and one day, out of nowhere, she is whisked away to a castle in a faraway land and given an ultimatum. Within 30 days, she must decide if she wants to go through with an arranged marriage or risk war among the neighboring kingdoms. The people she thought she knew turn against her and she can’t trust what she sees and hears. Regardless of what she chooses, her life will never be the same.

“Ruby & Onyx” is a captivating contemporary romance that examines the complexities of love and identity. The prose is both haunting and lyrical, immersing readers in the characters’ emotional landscapes: “Despite how annoying he is, I can’t help but notice his beauty. But even the scales of a snake’s skin can be alluring.” Radya’s journey of self-discovery and healing is portrayed with depth and nuance, while the rich character development and vivid descriptions of the setting enhance the overall reading experience. The author skillfully balances moments of intense drama with lighter, more intimate scenes, ensuring a well-rounded narrative that resonates on multiple levels. Despite being brief, the romantic scenes are intense without being graphic or vulgar.

Overall, “Ruby & Onyx” is a beautifully crafted tale that explores themes of love, loss, and self- discovery. Whether you’re drawn to stories of strong-willed heroines or tales of love set against a backdrop of danger and intrigue, this book will not disappoint. It’s a must-read for fans of contemporary romance who appreciate a story that is as emotionally resonant as it is romantically fulfilling.

“Before I can run, before I can stop what’s about to happen, our hands meet. The second they do, an explosion of sound and color booms around us, and the room melts into a blur like watercolors washing away.”

*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.

Marty Roppelt’s ‘Mortal Foe’: A Rollercoaster Ride Through the Shadows

‘Mortal Foe’ by Marty Roppelt. Photo: Amazon

Marty Roppelt was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio and enjoys writing in the paranormal and horror genre. He has written a series of short Christmas stories to raise money for St. Herman’s House, a homeless shelter in Cleveland. In his first novel “Mortal Foe,” a picture is worth a thousand words, but what if that image can only be seen through the lens of one special camera? (Amazon, 2024)

“Mortal Foe” – Buddy Cullen dreams of his grandfather’s death just before it happened. After his death, he inherits his grandfather’s antique camera which captures an image that haunts him and seeks his death. Can Buddy survive the curse that he sarcastically dubs “Popcorn”—a curse that no one wants to believe exists and stalks the city of Cleveland, beginning with its baseball team—a mortal foe?

Review:
The story is set in Cleveland, Ohio and begins with Buddy Cullen, a journalism professor, waking up from a nightmare about his grandfather Jimmy Cullen. In it, he sees his grandfather, who’s a photographer, and within the nightmare, he has an out of body experience and becomes Jimmy and experiences his last night alive. Buddy and his girlfriend Kelly attend Jimmy’s wake at O’Leary’s, his father’s Irish pub. There, he takes a picture of Jimmy’s friends with his old camera. This picture, and others that Jimmy took throughout his life, will haunt Buddy and he believes they are linked to the curse of the Cleveland Indians. Together with RJ, his best friend, and Erika, RJ’s sister, they investigate these pictures which inevitably opens hell on earth for Buddy and will endanger his loved ones in ways he never saw coming.

“Mortal Foe” is a gripping thriller that deals with the complexities of family and the human condition. Roppelt masterfully creates a narrative filled with suspense and intrigue, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with each twist and turn. The characters are well developed and their relationship with each other moves the story along at a steady pace. Buddy is a flawed but compelling character, struggling with his own moral dilemmas while chasing down a formidable antagonist. From the beginning, with Buddy awakening from a nightmare: “Don’t show the darkness any fear,” readers are immerse in his world, where menacing shadows lurk everywhere.

There is heavy sports talk since the narrative centers around baseball, specifically the Cleveland Indians, but you don’t have to know the sport well to get caught up on the story, which intensifies after Chapter 11 when Buddy starts seeing all sorts of creepy and scary images. The language is vivid and descriptive: “Mannion wears the profound loss of a close friend like a floor-length, black overcoat” and brings the story to life.

Overall, “Mortal Foe” is a must-read notable addition to the thriller genre, showcasing Roppelt’s talent for creating an engaging and thought-provoking story. By exploring the themes of death, faith, family, friendship, and good vs evil, it is a treat for baseball and supernatural fans alike. The author’s attention to detail and ability to build tension is evident throughout the book, making it a page-turner that’s hard to put down. It’s recommended for fans of suspenseful, character-driven narratives. 

“The shadow approaches my bed. The odors intensify with each step, both the reeking of too many roses and the stench of corruption. Decay. Death.”

*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.

Navigating Life’s Crossroads: How ‘The Art of Changing Course’ Can Transform Your Life

‘The Art of Changing Course’ is Chris Ruden’s new book. Photo: Amazon.

Motivational and self-improvement books offer valuable guidance for personal growth and achieving one’s goals. They provide insights into mindset shifts, productivity techniques, and strategies for overcoming obstacles. These books often share inspiring stories, practical advice, and actionable steps to help readers enhance their self-awareness, build resilience, and cultivate positive habits. By exploring diverse perspectives and proven methodologies, individuals can gain clarity, boost their confidence, and drive meaningful change in their lives. Ultimately, they empower readers to unlock their full potential and create a more fulfilling and purposeful existence. Keynote speaker and author Chris Ruden has new book out that’s worth mentioning: “The Art of Changing Course”

Chris Ruden is an amputee, Type 1 diabetic record-holding powerlifter, motivational keynote speaker, author, and disabled model who was featured on The Rock’s hit TV show “Titan Games.” From being humiliated and labeled broken because of his disability to struggling with mental health and living in a non disabled-inclusive world, Chris learned to turn his obstacles into opportunities, now using his badass bionic arm, diabetes technology, and message of “creating your world without limits” to impact people around the world. In his new book “The Art of Changing Course: A 3-Step Strategy to Get Unstuck and Solve Your Real Problems,” he shares the foolproof framework to take back control and create immediate lasting change. (Amazon/Athelo Group, 2024)

“The Art of Changing Course” – Getting stuck in life is a guarantee. Staying stuck is a choice. Chris Ruden provides a clear-cut process that walks readers through digestible, actionable stages to get unstuck, allowing you to rise beyond simple awareness of the desire to change and become the person you truly want to be. Backed by numerous psychological principles, management techniques, and organizational change theories, “The Art of Changing Course” focuses on helping readers make three distinct shifts: from subconscious to conscious, conscious to communicated, and finally, communicated to broadcasted.

In this book, you’ll learn about:

  • Moving past your go-to reactions of excuses and distractions when thinking about change
  • Harnessing the language of how you speak to yourself to open up possibilities for change
  • Giving yourself intrinsic permission to become the best version of yourself

People are stuck, lost, and confused―you, the people you care about, and strangers you interact with in your day-to-day life. “The Art of Changing Course” gives you the tools to actually do something about it. It will help you move from overwhelm to action, transforming from hopeless, scared, and stuck into confident, actionable, and limitless―an essential read for anyone looking to find success and fulfillment in their personal and professional lives, and help others do the same.

Exploring Jim Morrison’s Esoteric Legacy in Paul Wyld’s New Book

‘Jim Morrison, Secret Teacher of the Occult: A Journey to the Other Side’ by Paul Wyld. Photo: Amazon

Jim Morrison, the enigmatic frontman of The Doors, was a pioneering figure in rock music, known for his distinctive voice and charismatic stage presence. Born on December 8, 1943, Morrison’s lyrics often explored the themes of existentialism, love, and rebellion, making him a symbol of counterculture in the 1960s. His poetic and provocative performances captivated audiences and influenced countless musicians. Despite his profound impact, Morrison’s life was tragically cut short when he died on July 3, 1971, in Paris at the age of 27. His legacy endures through his innovative contributions to rock music and his status as an iconic cultural figure.

In today’s book news, there’s a new book coming out next month that shines the spotlight on this charismatic rock legend.

Paul Wyld is a singer-songwriter, artist, poet, and author with a liberal arts degree in history. His new book “Jim Morrison, Secret Teacher of the Occult: A Journey to the Other Side” is a journey into the mystical and spiritual side of the famed Doors front man. It will be released on September 10, 2024 (Inner Traditions, 2024)

“Jim Morrison, Secret Teacher of the Occult” – The groundbreaking 1960s band The Doors, named for Aldous Huxley’s The Doors of Perception, achieved incredible acclaim and influence, ultimately serving as a key group in the development of psychedelic and progressive rock. At the center of it all was front man Jim Morrison, who died in 1971 at age 27. Yet, as author Paul Wyld reveals, despite Morrison’s reputation as a lewd, drunken performer, he was a full-fledged mystical, shamanic figure, a secret teacher of the occult who was not merely central to the development of rock music, but also to the growth of the Western esoteric tradition as a whole.

Wyld looks at the mystical works that inspired Morrison, including Kurt Seligmann’s The Mirror of Magic, Colin Wilson’s The Outsider, and the writings of Nietzsche and Jack Kerouac. Drawing on Morrison’s lyrics and poems, his intimate writings, and the recollections of friends like photographer Paul Ferrara and Doors keyboard player Ray Manzarek, the author makes the case that Morrison was not simply a superficial dabbler in the occult but an actual secret teacher transmitting knowledge through the golden thread stretching back to Egypt and Thoth-Hermes.

Explaining how Morrison sought to use his role as a rock singer to express the power of inner experience, Wyld shows how praxis was at the heart of Morrison’s approach, revealed in his journey through the arduous ordeals of shamanic initiation. He was a shaman, mystic, and sage—and an essential part of a great spiritual awakening to which he gave himself over fully.

This book:

• Reveals Jim Morrison as a shamanic initiate and esoteric teacher who used his role as a rock singer to promote the adventure of the spirit and express the power of inner experience

• Examines Morrison’s deep occult and artistic influences, including Kurt Seligmann’s The Mirror of Magic, Colin Wilson’s The Outsider, and the works of Jack Kerouac

• Draws on Morrison’s lyrics and poems, his intimate writings, and the recollections of friends like photographer Paul Ferrara and Doors keyboard player Ray Manzarek

1725974318

  days

  hours  minutes  seconds

until

‘Jim Morrison, Secret Teacher of the Occult’ release date

Heartfelt and Honest: Exploring the Emotional Depth and Storytelling of ‘Daddy Sam’

‘Daddy Sam’ by Pamela Dubois. Photo: Amazon

“Daddy Sam” by Pamela Dubois is a heartwarming and thought-provoking story that explores the dynamics of family, identity, and resilience. The story centers around Sam and his journey from a tough childhood stemming from losing his mother when he was nine years old, to serving in World War II, returning to civilian life, marriage at a young age, raising a family of his own, becoming a successful businessman, and navigating retirement. The narrative is emotionally charged and insightful, diving deep into Sam’s life. It includes pictures of a young Sam and his wife Virginia as well as pictures of a love letter he wrote to her while on military duty and other personal mementos.

Main Chapters:
Introduction
Preface
Sam: The Early Years
Marriage
Military Service at the 38th Parallel
Civilian Life
Occupational Career
Retirement Travel
Second Career
Life After Virginia Fay

The character development and authentic portrayal of familial bonds makes Sam relatable. Dubois’s prose is both lyrical and poignant, capturing the nuances of grief, love, and personal growth with remarkable sensitivity. The interactions between Sam and family and friends are depicted with a sincerity that will resonate with readers who have experienced similar struggles or joys in their own lives.

Overall, “Daddy Sam” is compelling read that offers valuable reflections on the nature of family, resilience, and the enduring power of love. Though it’s a brief overview of Sam’s life, Pamela Dubois has delivered a touching and memorable story that will linger with readers. It is an easy read and recommended for readers who enjoy biographies and family saga fiction.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

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

Wisdom from the Ages: What ’30 Lessons for Loving’ Can Teach Us About Relationships

’30 Lessons for Loving’ by Karl Pillemer, PhD.

Karl Pillemer, PhD, is the founder and director of the Cornell Institute for Translational Research on Aging, a center that works to increase public awareness of aging research. Dr. Pillemer has authored more than one hundred scientific publications and has spoken widely throughout the world on issues of successful aging, family relationships, and elder care. His book “30 Lessons for Loving: Advice from the Wisest Americans on Love, Relationships, and Marriage” gives sage advice and memorable stories from extraordinary older Americans who share advice on love, relationships, and marriage. (Amazon, 2024)

“30 Lessons for Loving” – Based on the most detailed survey of long married people ever conducted, it shows the way to lifelong, fulfilling relationships. The author offers sage advice from the oldest and wisest Americans on everything from finding a partner, to deciding to commit, to growing old together. Along the way, the book answers questions like these: How do you know if the person you love is the right one? What are the secrets for improving communication and reducing conflict? What gets you through the major stresses of marriage, such as child-rearing, work, money issues, and in-laws? From interviews with 700 elders it offers unique wisdom that will enrich anyone’s relationship life, from people searching for the right partner to those working to keep the spark alive after decades together. It is structured around thirty distinct lessons, each offering practical advice and profound insights derived from real-life stories.

Chapters include:
Chapter 1: Evening the Odds: Lessons for Finding a Mate
Chapter 2: Communication Is the Key
Chapter 3: Getting Through the Hard Parts
Chapter 4: Keeping the Spark Alive
Chapter 5: Thinking Like an Expert About Love and Marriage

Review:
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its blend of empirical research with heartfelt personal stories. Pillemer’s approach is scholarly and accessible, making the wisdom of seasoned couples relatable and actionable for readers of all ages. The lessons cover a wide range of topics, from the importance of communication and forgiveness to the role of shared experiences in strengthening bonds.

Highlights:
Chapter 2 Lesson Five: Three Danger Signs – Points to dangers signs that could signal that a relationship is in trouble including Violence – Once is More Than Enough; Your Partner Is Controlling; and Your Partner Demeans You.

Chapter 3 Lesson Two: Work-Family Stress: Make Your Home a Safe Haven – emphasizes the importance of making your home a safe place free from the stresses of work and avoiding the dreaded “spillover”: “…elders believe that adopting an attitude that ‘home is home and work is work’ is a critical first step.

Overall, “30 Lessons for Loving” is an optimistic yet realistic perspective on love and acknowledges the complexities and challenges of relationships while providing hopeful strategies for overcoming them. The practical advice, grounded in the experiences of those who have navigated long-term relationships, offers valuable guidance for anyone seeking to deepen their connections with loved ones. It is a thoughtful and enriching read for anyone interested in the enduring art of love.

“It’s true that the experts highlight verbal communication-they want you to keep talking. But in addition to conversations, they suggest that actions can speak as loudly as words.”

*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.

Get Ready for ‘No Address’: A Sneak Peek into Ken Abraham’s New Book

‘No Address’ is part of a five-pronged approach to shed light on the homeless situation and offer solutions. Photo: Amazon

In a continuation of the mission to bring awareness and solutions to homelessness in America, Robert Craig Films is announcing the upcoming release of the novel “No Address” published by Forefront Books with sales and distribution by Simon & Schuster. This is part of “The Big 5” movement to bring empathy and awareness to the stories of homelessness born from the Robert Craig Films – produced, award-winning No Address movie. The novel is now available for pre-order. (Anderson PR, 2024)

“In the pages of ‘No Address,’ the reader embarks on a literary journey that follows the story of individuals and families experiencing homelessness. The plight of the unhoused is something we all see on a daily basis and we are humbled to present this book, knowing it will leave an everlasting mark on hearts and minds alike.” – Jonathan Merkh, President of Forefront Books 

The novel “No Address” is written by 15-time New York Times Best Selling Author Ken Abraham. Based on the critically acclaimed dramatic film and inspired by true events, “No Address” shows how homelessness could happen to anyone. It will be available on September 10, 2024 through Forefront Books and available for pre-order.

“I look for stories that have the potential to transform the fabric of our society, and ‘No Address’ rises to the top in that category,” shares Ken Abraham. “To help someone who has no way of repaying you is one of the greatest joys in life and I believe ‘No Address’ can inspire that sort of response in millions of people.”

“No Address” is a gripping tale about a group of individuals who find themselves homeless due to unfortunate circumstances. It provides a realistic portrayal of their fight for survival against the gangs, vigilantes, and an uncompassionate community. It features celebrity cast members, including William Baldwin, Xander Berkeley, Beverly D’Angelo, Ashanti, Lucas Jade Zumann, Isabella Ferreira, Patricia Velasquez, and Ty Pennington. To take homelessness head-on and do more, “The Big 5” includes the “No Address” movie, novel, documentary, an interactive study guide, and an upcoming music album. 

Robert Craig Films is a film company located in Placer County, California, with a mission to develop, create and produce high-quality, entertaining movies that inspire the audience to engage with greater empathy, compassion, and generosity in their communities. 

1725958119

  days

  hours  minutes  seconds

until

‘No Address’ release date

Mastering Conflict: A Deep Dive into Robert Moment’s ‘Conflict Resolution Skills’

‘Conflict Resolution Skills’ is Robert Moment’s new book.

Robert Moment is an ICF Certified Leadership, Executive, Emotional Intelligence, and Peak Performance Coach with over 15 years of experience in coaching and more than 20 years in Fortune 500 corporate roles. He specializes in building high-performing teams and unlocking the potential of leaders. Recognized as a Top LinkedIn Voice in Leadership Development, Robert is dedicated to empowering professionals to excel in their careers and transform their workplaces. His new book “Conflict Resolution Skills: The Proven System for Building Confidence, Communicating Effectively and Resolving Workplace Conflicts with Ease,” he provides a comprehensive guide to turning conflict into a powerful catalyst for growth and innovation. (Amazon, 2024)

“Conflict Resolution Skills” – Drawing on over 15 years of coaching experience and 20-plus years of Fortune 500 work experience, Robert Moment shares strategies that have helped countless teams transform disagreements into opportunities for collaboration and success.

This book is packed with practical tools and techniques that will empower you to:

  • Approach Conflict with Confidence and Grace: Develop the mindset needed to tackle conflicts head-on.
  • Communicate Clearly and Effectively: Master the art of communication, even in the most challenging situations.
  • Build Trust and Foster Empathy: Learn techniques to create understanding and mutual respect among team members.
  • Navigate Difficult Conversations: Discover strategies for de-escalating conflicts, managing emotions, and finding win-win solutions.
  • Enhance Your Leadership Skills: Become a catalyst for positive change and create a harmonious, productive work environment.

Whether you are a manager, employee, or leader striving to improve your interpersonal skills, this book will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to resolve conflicts and drive positive change in your organization. Transform your approach to conflict and unlock the potential within your team. Order your copy today and start your journey towards a more harmonious and productive work environment.

Review:

This book is an invaluable resource for anyone navigating the complexities of workplace dynamics. In this useful guide, Moment organizes conflict resolution into accessible strategies, making it suitable for both newcomers and seasoned professionals.

He begins by defining conflict as what happens “when individuals possess differing needs, goals, or values, leading to disagreements that can either be personal or systemic within an organization.” Along with that, he explains the various types of conflict and the role that emotions play in it. The book is well organized, featuring clear explanations of core concepts and real-world examples that illustrate each point. The focus is on the importance of building confidence and effective communication, highlighting how these skills are crucial in diffusing tense situations. His step-by-step approach provides readers with actionable techniques, such as active listening and empathetic engagement, which can be immediately applied.

Chapters include:
Introduction
Chapter 1 The Foundation of Conflict Resolution
Chapter 2 Effective Communication Skills for Conflict Resolution
Chapter 3 Understanding Emotions in Conflict Management
Chapter 4 Different Communication Styles and Conflict
Chapter 5 Mastering Leadership Styles for Effective Conflict Resolution
Chapter 6 Conflict Negotiation Strategies for Win-Win Outcomes
Chapter 7 Conflict Resolution Skills: Top 20 Skills Managers Need to Resolve Conflict in the Workplace with Ease
Chapter 8 Mediation Skills for Resolving Conflict
Chapter 9 Resolving Workplace Conflicts: Common Scenarios and Solutions
Chapter 10 Conflict Resolution and Organizational Culture
Chapter 11 Legal and Ethical Considerations in Conflict Resolution
Chapter 12 Self Care and Resilience in Conflict Resolution
Chapter 13 Applying Conflict Resolution Skills Beyond the Workplace
Chapter 14 The Conflict Transformer: 30 Expert Tips to Turn Workplace Challenges into Opportunities
Chapter 15 R.E.S.O.L.V.E™ Your Workplace Conflicts: A Coaching Exercise
Conclusion

Highlights:

Chapter 3: explains the importance of emotional intelligence, especially in yourself because once you acknowledge and understand your own feelings, you can begin to efficiently deal with conflict. Self awareness is key. “Emotions can act like unpredictable waves, crashing down unexpectedly or quietly bubbling beneath the surface, complicating even the simplest interactions.”

Chapter 13: emphasizes how knowing how to deal conflict can be useful outside the workplace, including in the community and in personal relationships. “Effective conflict resolution is not just about finding a quick fix; it can significantly strengthen relationships, enhance mutual understanding, and promote a sense of harmony.”

Each chapter ends with Coaching Questions which further enhance the learning experience. It is an easy read with language that is clear and concise. What I especially liked is the combination of theoretical insights with practical applications, empowering readers to not only resolve conflicts but also foster a more collaborative work environment.

Overall, “Conflict Resolution Skills” is an essential read for anyone seeking to enhance their interpersonal skills. It’s not just about resolving disputes; it’s about cultivating a mindset that promotes understanding and cooperation in the workplace. Though highly recommended for managers, team leaders, and employees seeking to improve their conflict management abilities and create a more positive and productive workplace, anyone outside the work environment can benefit from the practical material.

*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.

How Daniel Patrick Forrester’s ‘Consider’ Challenges Conventional Thinking

‘Consider: Harnessing the Power of Reflective Thinking in Your Organization’ by Daniel Patrick Forrester

Daniel Patrick Forrester founded THRUUE, Inc., an expert consultancy that supports leaders and boards bridge the gap between strategy and culture. With the explosion of data and hyperconnectivity, Daniel’s curiosity led him to research how leaders responded to the onslaught of available data and to publish his first book, “Consider: Harnessing the Power of Reflective Thinking in Your Organization.” It centers around the role reflection can play in dramatically improving corporate outcomes. As a top nonfiction leadership book, it has impacted the lives and work habits of small and large organizations from around the world. (Amazon, 2024)

“Consider: Harnessing the Power of Reflective Thinking in Your Organization”

“STOP, THINK, AND DON’T DO SOMETHING STUPID!” This is the warning Dr. Robert Bea drills into his Civil and Environmental Engineering students at the University of California in Berkeley. Bea wants to dramatize what he terms the inevitable “oh shit” moments that present themselves—before an actual engineering calamity like the Deepwater Horizon/BP disaster happens.

There’s an intangible and invisible marketplace within our lives today where the products traded are four fold: attention, distraction, data and meaning.

The stories and examples within “Consider” demonstrate that the best decisions, insights, ideas and outcomes result when we take sufficient time to think and reflect. While technology allows us to act and react more quickly than ever before, we are taking increasingly less time to consider our decisions before we make them. Reflection supplies an arsenal of ideas and solutions to the right problems. Including interviews with leaders such as General David Petraeus, attorney Brooksley Born and global investor Kyle Bass, Forrester shows us that taking time and giving ourselves the mental space for reflection can mean the difference between total success and total failure.

Review:
This book is an insightful exploration into how reflective thinking can revolutionize organizational dynamics and decision-making. Forrester suggests that the ability to pause, reflect, and engage in deep thinking is essential for encouraging innovation and strategic clarity in today’s fast-paced business environments.

It is organized around practical strategies and real-world examples, demonstrating how reflective practices can be systematically integrated into organizational cultures. He explains that reflection is not necessarily a passive activity but an active, intentional process that can lead to more informed and creative decision-making. By introducing concepts such as “reflective leadership” and “strategic pauses,” Forrester provides actionable tools for leaders seeking to cultivate a reflective culture within their teams. One term that stands out is “plastic time,” what people are now experiencing when they are in “a constant state of interruption and movement between many different tasks.”

It is divided as follows:

Introduction: The Space between Data and Meaning
1. The Human Need for Think Time
2. Forcing Think Time
3. Thinking Out Loud
4. Promoting Think Time
5. Taking a Step Back
6. Too Big to Think?
7. Rapid Contemplation
8 .Outside the Day-to-Day
9 .Reflection and Extreme Situations
10. The Future of Think Time and Reflection

By combining theoretical insights and practical advice, the information is accessible to both senior executives and mid-level managers. Forrester’s writing is clear and engaging, with a focus on real-world applications rather than abstract theories.

Overall, “Consider” is a valuable resource for leaders looking to harness the power of reflection to drive organizational growth and resilience. It is recommended for readers interested in books on workplace culture and leadership/motivation.

“I do not wish to suggest that being alone and thinking always leads the mind to positive and beneficial outcomes… Alone time and reflection when one’s mental model of the world is perverse can give rise to the unimaginable.”

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

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Personal Memories and Untold Stories: A Review of ‘Remember the Time’

‘Remember the Time: Protecting Michael Jackson in His Final Days’ by Bill Whitfield and Javon Beard. Photo: Amazon

Experts in the field of private protection, Bill Whitfield and Javon Beard served for two and a half years as the personal security team for Michael Jackson and have worked with numerous other high-profile clients, including Sean “P. Diddy” Combs, Alicia Keys, and Shaquille O’Neal. (Amazon, 2024)

Coauthor Tanner Colby is the author of the New York Times bestseller “The Chris Farley Show: A Biography in The Acts,” “Belushi: A Biography,” and “Some of My Best Friends Are Black: The Strange Story of Integration in America,” which was nominated for the Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Nonfiction by the American Library Association. He is also a frequent contributor to Slate magazine.

Their book “Remember the Time: Protecting Michael Jackson in His Final Days” is the story of a man struggling to live a normal life under extraordinary circumstances and the story of a father fighting to protect and provide for his children. It dismantles the tabloid myths once and for all to give Michael Jackson back his humanity.

“Remember the Time” – Hounded by the tabloid media, driven from his self-made sanctuary at Neverland, Michael Jackson spent his final years moving from city to city, living with his three children in virtual seclusion, a futile attempt to escape a world that wouldn’t leave him alone. During that time, Bill Whitfield, a former cop and veteran of the security profession, and Javon Beard, a brash, untested rookie, both single fathers themselves, served as the singer’s personal security team

Stationed at his side nearly 24/7, their job was to see and hear everything that transpired, and to keep everyone else out, making them the only two men who know what 60 million fans around the world still want to know: What really happened to the King of Pop?

Driven by a desire to show the world who Michael Jackson truly was, Whitfield and Beard have produced the only definitive, first-person account of Michael Jackson’s last years: the extreme measures necessary to protect Jackson and his family, the simple moments of happiness they managed to share in a time of great stress, the special relationship Jackson shared with his fans, and the tragic events that culminated in the singer’s ill-fated comeback, This Is It. The truth is far more compelling than anything you’ve yet heard.

It is divided as follows:

Prologue
Part One: Can We Go Back to Neverland?
Part Two: Why Don’t They Just Leave Me Alone?
Part Three: This Is It

Review:
This book gives readers an intimate and compelling look into the last years of Michael Jackson’s life. It provides a unique perspective on the King of Pop, revealing the challenges and complexities of protecting such a high-profile figure.

Whitfield and Beard, who served as Jackson’s head of security and bodyguard respectively, deliver an insider’s view that humanizes the pop icon. Their accounts are filled with personal stories and reflections that paint a portrait of Jackson as a deeply private man struggling under intense public scrutiny. By exploring the logistical and emotional strains of safeguarding someone so constantly in the limelight it highlights the lengths to which they went to ensure Jackson’s safety and well-being.

Overall, while the book’s revelations are sometimes sensational, they offer valuable insights into Jackson’s final days and the pressures he faced. It’s a poignant read for fans and those interested in the complexities of celebrity life, providing a detailed understanding of Jackson beyond the headlines.

“Remember the Time” feels authentic, especially the heartfelt respect the authors clearly have for the late singer. An easy read, it is an important piece of pop-culture history and recommended for readers interested in knowing more about the late King of Pop, including the early years.

“Because all I felt was anger. That overtook everything else. I sat there with all these people getting up onstage and talking about what a great friend Michael was and how much he meant to them, and the only thing I could think was: Where were they?…Where were all these people when he needed them?” – Bill Whitfield

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

Rating: 4 out of 5.