April 2022 – Ryan’s Book Blog

How to Change your Mind

April 26, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Published back in 2015, How to Change your Mind is a book trying to get a handle on consciousness as a whole and what goes into being a conscious creature through the use of Psychedelics.

My Thoughts

The whole idea of drugs that can suspend your notion of self is a little terrifying but it is interesting to see how they are being used. I’m not ready to sign up for a test run but I’m certainly interested in where the science is going.

Recommendation

An interesting read

Will

April 22, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Published in November of 2021, Will is a memoir by Will Smith. The book tells the story of Smith’s life, from his childhood in West Philadelphia to his rise to fame as a rapper, actor, and producer. Smith writes candidly about his struggles with poverty, violence, and racism, as well as his triumphs in the entertainment industry. He also shares his thoughts on success, happiness, and family. Will is a powerful and inspiring story about the power of hope and determination.

My Thoughts

Will Smith really let it all out there with this book. He has had a very interesting life that I would have never known about from his connections to organized crime to his multiple marriages and so on. However, I still like him and wish him the best.

Recommendation

Good read if you are a fan.

The Book of Mormon

April 19, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

The Book of Mormon is a compilation of books from the ancient Americas. It is another testament of Jesus Christ and works hand in hand with the bible with the goal to teach the gospel.

My Thoughts

I re-read the Book of Mormon every 10 months or so as I read around a chapter a day. When I was 17, I prayed if this book was true and received a witness that it was. Ever since then, I have done my best to be a disciple of Jesus Christ and do what I can to teach others about him. (Even if through my example.)

Recommendation

I hope everyone can read this book.

Is this Anything?

April 18, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Published in October of 2020, Is this Anything? is a book about the standup journey of Jerry Seinfeld.

My Thoughts

I really enjoyed this book and it was fun to hear him go over some of his classic routine. He does a good job showing the work that goes on behind the scenes and mentions that he keeps written notes on every joke he has ever told.

Recommendation

I really enjoyed this. However, I’m a fan and I love a good story of grit.

Walk in my Combat Boots

April 14, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Published in February of 2021, Walk in My Combat Boots is a collection of true stories from America’s warriors, told by the men and women who lived them. The stories are raw, honest, and unforgettable. They offer a glimpse into the lives of those who have served our country in the armed forces, and the sacrifices they have made.

The book is divided into three sections: “The Call to Duty,” “The Fight,” and “The Homecoming.” In “The Call to Duty,” the authors share their stories of why they joined the military. In “The Fight,” they recount their experiences in combat. And in “The Homecoming,” they discuss the challenges of re-integrating into civilian life.

My Thoughts

Most of the stories are lacking in any kind of theme or similarity so it was easy to get lost in the narrative. My hat is off to our service men and women but I didn’t really enjoy this book.

Recommendation

It was hard to get through. I’d skip this one.

The Nineties

April 11, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Published in February of 2022, “The Nineties” is written by historian and journalist Ben H. Winters that examines the cultural and political landscape of the United States during the 1990s. The book covers a wide range of topics, from the rise of the internet and the explosion of grunge music to the impeachment of President Bill Clinton and the fallout from the 1992 Los Angeles riots. Through a combination of interviews, primary sources, and insightful analysis, Winters paints a vivid picture of a decade that was marked by both remarkable progress and persistent social and political challenges. The book offers a compelling look back at a pivotal moment in American history and provides valuable insights into the forces that continue to shape our world today. talking about that magical decade after the 80s.

My Thoughts

Such a great book! I enjoyed it from start to finish having grown up through that time frame. (Also, my ex-wife had the exact phone as the one on the cover.)

So many things were put in perspective that my kids just wouldn’t understand.

Recommendation

Great read.

Kamala’s Way

April 8, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Published January of 2021, Kamala’s Way: An American Life is the biography of Kamala Harris who eventually was elected as Vice President of the United States of America.

My Thoughts

Not many books upset me the way thing one did. I very much disagree with Kamala’s way of doing things. She seems to be an opportunist and a bully without much sense of right and wrong. She misses the irony we she is quoted as “babies, babies, babies” when she is talking about poor children while at the same time she had a big hand in legalizing abortion. She ignored Californian’s repeated votes about same-sex marriage and allowed a judge to legislate from the bench to fit her own ideas. It was Kamala’s responsibility to challenge that ruling. But she didn’t… I just hope President Biden lives throughout his presidency.

Recommendation

Hard book to read but I like to hear what the other side is saying.

A Hunter-Gatherer’s Guide to the 21st Century

April 5, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Published in September of 2021, A Hunter-Gatherer’s Guide to the 21st Century is the story of how modern life isn’t so good for us.

My Thoughts

The authors are evolutionary biologists and they had some interesting takes on life as a whole. While I agree that potato chips aren’t the best for me they certainly are sooo good and that makes my lizard brain happy. However, I think it is too easy to conflate happiness, wellness, and fitness. They are certainly linked but just because our ancestors were fit, toned, and tanned, doesn’t mean wouldn’t enjoy a nice hot bath and a good long sleep on a mattress.

Recommendation

Great read.