Ryan's Book Blog – Page 10 – I read therefore I am.

Fight Fat After Forty

April 22, 2024 by Ryan

Background

Published in 2000, “Fight Fat After Forty” is a health and wellness book by Pamela Peeke, M.D. It addresses the unique challenges women face in managing their weight after the age of forty. The book delves into the physiological changes such as hormonal fluctuations that can impact metabolism, mood, and energy levels. Dr. Peeke combines scientific research with practical advice, proposing a comprehensive plan that includes diet modifications, stress management techniques, and an exercise regimen tailored to enhance metabolic efficiency. The core message is that understanding and adapting to these bodily changes can empower women to maintain fitness and health.

My Thoughts

I am feeling a little larger than I’d prefer and I wanted to listen to something motivational while I had some time on my hands. I was shooting my son’s track meet when I picked out this book and didn’t quite look at it close enough. This book is all about the female side of health, but I figured, why not? Maybe I’ll learn something…

I found the book to be pretty well balanced as it didn’t advocate extreme versions of dieting. Dr. Peeke attempts to get to the reasons why women feel hungry and what to expect as they reach their forties. She gives practical advise and doesn’t go for the all-or-nothing or shaming approaches to weight loss.

On another note, I brought down two titles to listen to. The other looked like a clinical overview. It turned out it was all about women as well. It’s rare I send anything back, but I made an exception in this case. Sorry, Sara Gottfried M.D. I didn’t read “The Brain Body Diet” but the cover successfully reeled in a download.

Recommendation

I good balanced book on healthy eating. I highly recommend two X chromosomes.

Perfect State

April 21, 2024 by Ryan

Background

Published in 2015, “Perfect State” is a science fiction novella by Brandon Sanderson set in a world where humans are little more than brains in jars. Each live in individual, tailored simulation designed to offer them rule over their own “state,” essentially becoming a god within their virtual realm. We follow the God-Emperor Kairominas, an all-powerful ruler in his own domain, adept in both sorcery and technology. However, his perfect life is disrupted when he is required to meet with a woman from another state for the purpose of procreation. This meeting is crashed by his nemesis Melhi forcing Kai to confront his own mortality.

My Thoughts

This was a fun short read. The idea itself was similar to the Matrix without much of an explanation. However, I enjoyed the general malaise Kai found himself in after centuries of ruling everything and only dealing in simulations. “The Wode”, the creator of his simulation and possibly all others, likes to mix things up when the occupants start getting bored. Sanderson leaves the reader wondering if what happened was truly his nemesis or just another simulation. The door was left wide open to build on the story.

Recommendation

A good short read which can stand on its own.

Dawnshard

April 20, 2024 by Ryan

Background

Published in 2020, “Dawnshard” is a fantasy novella by Brandon Sanderson, set in the universe of his “Stormlight Archive” series and serving as an interlude between the third and fourth main novels. The story follows Rysn Ftori, a merchant and shipowner who, after an accident left her paralyzed from the waist down, is tasked with leading an expedition to the mysterious and dangerous island of Akinah. Accompanied by the Lopen, now a Knight Radiant, Rysn embarks on a voyage that unveils secrets linked to the ancient Dawnshards—artifacts believed to be instrumental in both the creation and potential destruction of worlds.

My Thoughts

This was a very quick read and could easily stand on it’s own. That said, it didn’t really fit within the other books in the Stormlight Archive. The idea of Rysn earning her place as the owner of the ship

Recommendation

Not a bad read.

The Algebra of Happiness

April 19, 2024 by Ryan

Background

Published in 2019, “The Algebra of Happiness” is a book by Scott Galloway that offers a blend of personal anecdotes, professional advice, and insights into achieving success, happiness, and life fulfillment. The book draws from Galloway’s experiences as an entrepreneur, professor, and public speaker, providing guidance on relationships, career choices, and personal growth.

My Thoughts

I enjoyed this book. In particular, the fact that his sons brought so much joy into his life. (I don’t know that kissing them on the mouth is needed, but still.) It’s amazing how much he gets wrong at the same time of getting so much right.

Recommendation

It was still worth the read.

The Grand Strategy That Won The Cold War

April 16, 2024 by Ryan

Background

Published in 2016, “The Grand Strategy that Won the Cold War: Architecture of Triumph” by Douglas E. Streusand, presents an analysis of the strategic framework that led to the United States’ victory in the Cold War. Streusand examines the multifaceted approach adopted by American policymakers, emphasizing the importance of containment, military strength, economic vitality, and ideological warfare. Drawing on extensive research and historical evidence, he argues that the United States successfully constructed a resilient and adaptable grand strategy that effectively countered Soviet expansionism and ultimately led to the collapse of the Soviet Union.

My Thoughts

This was a fascinating look behind the scenes of the Reagan administration and how they went about combating communism and more specifically the USSR. The author is unapologetically pro President Reagan and states repeatedly that he both had the vision and followed through. If true, that is impressive and puts so many actions taken in perspective. I am currently looking for more information and/or the counter argument.

Recommendation

A little stuffy and full of references, but I enjoyed it.

The Frugal Wizard’s Handbook for Surviving Medieval England

April 12, 2024 by Ryan

Background

Published in April of 2023, “The Frugal Wizard’s Handbook for Surviving Medieval England” by Brandon Sanderson is a futuristic fantasy novel. It unfolds in a world where a corporation offers dimensions akin to medieval England to thrill-seekers from the present day. Equipped with advanced technology, these visitors appear as wizards to the locals, but when the protagonist discovers unexpected company in his personal dimension, he finds more than he bargained for.

My Thoughts

I really needed a fun read and this fit the bill. Brandon Sanderson is a personal favorite and I hadn’t seen this book before. I enjoyed the concept and the literary device of memory loss. As a reader, we were walked through putting together who the main character is, why he is there, and was able to cheer him on as he attempted to do what is right. I can’t ask for much more than that.

Recommendation

Fun book!

Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us

April 8, 2024 by Ryan

Background

Published in 2009, “Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us” explores the concept of motivation and challenges traditional notions of what drives human behavior. Daniel H. Pink argues that conventional carrot-and-stick approaches to motivation, such as rewards and punishments, are often ineffective in fostering long-term engagement and creativity. Pink introduces the concept of intrinsic motivation suggesting individuals are most motivated when they have the freedom to pursue tasks that align with their interests and values, opportunities to develop their skills, and a clear sense of meaning in their work.

My Thoughts

Reading this book 16 years after the publication does taint the excitement generated by the subject matter. I remember the rise of the open office in the tech world and the ideas of empowerment that were prevalent during that time. Some offices have continued along that path but have learned there are times employees needed time to themselves to do deep work. Of course, the COVID pandemic threw a monkey wrench into the idea of a fixed office provided by the company. Oddly enough, this plays directly into Pink’s point of autonomy. Are we more productive now? We are still sorting that out, but early reports like this one say we are much better off.

Recommendation

A good read but getting dated.

The Problem of Pain

April 5, 2024 by Ryan

Background

Published in 1940, “The Problem of Pain” by C.S. Lewis is an exploration of the theological and philosophical issue of human suffering. Drawing from his understanding of Christian theology and classical philosophy, Lewis delves into the nature of pain and its relationship to the existence of a loving God. Through logic and stories, Lewis tackles complex questions surrounding theodicy, free will, and divine justice, offering readers profound insights into the nature of suffering and why we have to endure it.

My Thoughts

C.S. Lewis is a favorite of mine and I love to hear him reason through arguments. I very much wish I could talk to him about my understanding of the gospel and the nature of God. In this publication, Lewis expounds on why we are subject to pain and suffering. In short, our loving God gave it to us to make us better. We have the opportunity to give God the only real gift we can give, which is our freedom of choice and choose to become better than what we are.

Recommendation

This one is a must read. Possibly several times to get my head wrapped around it.

The Age of Deer

April 4, 2024 by Ryan

Background

Published in 2016, “The Age of Deer” by Erika Howsare is an exploration of humanity’s ecological interdependence with the deer population, blending memoir, natural history, and cultural analysis. Howsare’s book takes readers in her personal journey as she observes, interacts with, and reflects upon the behavior and symbolism of deer in different cultures and in her rural Virginia surroundings. She attempts to view human interaction with deer through several perspectives and through several lenses.

My Thoughts

At times the book is surprisingly insightful and touched on information and situations, of which I was not aware. However, it is all through the eyes of someone who is still squeamish at the sight of blood and has obvious distaste for hunters. Through the story arc of the book, she does find grudging respect for those who hunt (fortunately they were family members). Still, she seems to want it tied up in a bow of nobility and need. Something akin to, ‘The hunter must hunt to survive and must reverence the creature on which they feed.’

Regardless, she seemed to do her homework and the book is well written. Even if she had to hold her nose through the project, she did provide some interesting facts.

Recommendation

This was hard to get through for me but I’m glad I read it.

The Gunslinger

March 26, 2024 by Ryan

Background

“The Gunslinger” is the first book in Stephen King’s “The Dark Tower” series. It introduces readers to Roland Deschain, the last gunslinger, who is on a quest to catch the mysterious “man in black” and find the Dark Tower, a mythical structure that is the nexus of all universes. The story is set in a world that is a blend of Old West motifs and magical fantasy. Roland’s journey takes him through desolate towns and across barren landscapes, meeting various characters who either help or hinder his quest.

My Thoughts

I really didn’t enjoy this book. It seemed crass in the same way a junior high kid sees the world. Perhaps the rest of the series would redeem it, but I won’t be finishing it. There were some interesting ideas with the backstory of the gunslinger, but again, the power struggle between him and his mentor felt like the perspective and mindset of a teenager. This caused a lack of empathy for the character and general loss of interest on my part. It was no surprise when I learned this was one of King’s first books.

Recommend

Skip this one