Month: April 2023

Legacy Earth

Background

Published in September of 2021, “Legacy Earth” is a science fiction novel by author Mike Buzzell. Set in the year 2256, the story follows the adventures of a group of humans who have been living on a distant planet for generations after Earth was destroyed in a catastrophic event. When they discover evidence that Earth may still exist, a small team is sent on a dangerous mission to confirm the discovery and possibly reclaim their ancestral home. Along the way, they encounter unexpected allies and enemies, and must confront the consequences of the choices their ancestors made in order to survive. The novel explores themes of environmentalism, the search for identity and belonging, and the impact of technology on society.

Legacy Earth
Legacy Earth

My Thoughts

This was an interesting book as it took several liberties with history and the military to build out a possible scenario for the future. It took a bit to get started as the main character is a little too good for belief. He doesn’t seem to slow down as the book goes on but the other characters become more likeable as they become fleshed out. There were a few things that were discordant to me which likely shouldn’t have been given that it is set 500 years in the future. Still, my exposure to Marines makes me less-than-sympathetic to people who haven’t done their research on their culture. I got over it though.

Recommendation

It was a good enough book for me to get in the door to the series. Let’s see where it goes from here.

Raising Your Spirited Child

Background

Published way back in 1991, “Raising Your Spirited Child” by Mary Sheedy Kurcinka is a guidebook for parents who have children with intense and challenging personalities. Kurcinka identifies these children as “spirited” and explains that they possess qualities such as high energy, sensitivity, persistence, and emotional intensity that, when properly channeled, can lead to great creativity, resilience, and success. However, she also acknowledges that these same qualities can cause conflicts with parents, teachers, and peers if not managed properly. Kurcinka provides practical strategies for understanding and nurturing spirited children, including tips for managing behavior, communicating effectively, and promoting healthy development. She emphasizes the importance of accepting and appreciating a child’s individuality and working with their unique strengths and weaknesses to help them thrive.

Raising Your Spirited Child
Raising Your Spirited Child

My Thoughts

I was very surprised to learn the book was from 1991 as even I was thinking, “This kid just needs a good beating…” a few times in the book. That was somewhat tongue in cheek though as I agree with most of her ideas.

There is a fine line between being sensitive to a child’s needs and being enabling or overindulgent. As a parent, I feel like I tread on that line on a daily basis.

Recommendation

Definitely worth the read and attention. Even if you don’t agree, the book will make you think a little bit about why you think the things you do.

Eat & Run

Background

Published in June of 2012, “Eat & Run” by Scott Jurek is a memoir that documents his rise to become one of the most well known ultramarathon runners of all time and his transition to a plant-based diet. Jurek recounts his childhood in a Minnesota logging town, his early days as a struggling runner, and his eventual success in some of the world’s toughest races, including the Western States 100 and the Badwater Ultramarathon. Throughout the book, Jurek provides practical advice on training, nutrition, and the mental toughness needed to succeed in long-distance running.

Eat & Run
Eat & Run

My Thoughts

I remember 2012 and that, like many, I had adopted the barefoot running craze that swept the country with the book “Born to Run.” It was interesting to read something from that time period but from the angle of an Ultra Marathoner. The author was a fan of some cushion in his soul…

I’ve heard the name Scott Jurek in a few places. More recently in the book, “In Pursuit of Endurance” which I read a few weeks back. He definitely made a name for himself but I didn’t know much about the vegetarian thing. I can’t say I care a great deal about that but I was interested to hear about some of his ideas on how to cook.

Recommendation

I won’t be reading it again but I was glad I finished it.

The Long Run

Background

Published in March of 2009 “The Long Run” is a memoir by Matt Long, a New York City firefighter and Ironman triathlete who survived a horrific bus accident that left him with life-threatening injuries. The book details Long’s harrowing road to recovery, which included dozens of surgeries and years of physical therapy. Along the way, Long reflects on his love of sports, his career as a firefighter, and the importance of perseverance and mental toughness. Through his story, Long also sheds light on the selflessness and bravery of first responders, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Overall, “The Long Run” is an inspiring and uplifting tale of one man’s remarkable journey to overcome incredible odds and reclaim his life.

The Long Run
The Long Run

My Thoughts

The book started and sounded like any number of Firefighter/Police/Military conversations I’ve heard where one person is trying to posture themselves above everyone else. I wasn’t impressed. However, as the book went on, the author didn’t quite seem to be such a blowhard. Then he slowly takes you on the ride he went through bit by bit. It isn’t quite chronological but he did a good job stringing things together. Also, I loved the name of his bar. That seemed to be perfect!

Recommendation

Worth the time.