Ryan's Book Blog – Page 12 – I read therefore I am.

Atomic Habits

February 28, 2024 by Ryan

Background

Published back in 2018, “Atomic Habits” by James Clear is a transformative guide that delves into the power of small, consistent actions in shaping one’s life. Clear articulates how minuscule changes can lead to remarkable results by focusing on the compound effects of habits over time. The book presents a comprehensive framework for understanding how habits form, how they can be changed, and the impact they have on our identity and daily lives. Through a blend of scientific research, real-world examples, and practical advice, Clear provides readers with strategies to break bad habits and cultivate positive ones, emphasizing the significance of incremental improvement and the role of environment in habit formation. “Atomic Habits” empowers readers to harness the strength of tiny changes, offering a pathway to achieving personal goals and lasting change.

My Thoughts

This is second time reviewing this book on this blog and I doubt it will be the last. It is also the second time I was talking to a Marine when they mentioned the book and how much it meant to them. So I read it, again. This time I enjoyed it so much it not only was discussed with my wife, but we actually bought the book.

Recommendation

Great book. Give it a read!

Loki: Journey Into Mystery

February 27, 2024 by Ryan

Background

Published in December of 2023, “Loki: Journey Into Mystery” is an adaptation of Kieron Gillen’s Loki series. In this tale, Loki has been reincarnated again and is only a young boy trying to do what he can to make things write. However, everyone remembers the old Loki and doesn’t trust him. Regardless, the weight of the 7 realms is on his shoulders as he is trying to prevent war.

My Thoughts

This adaptation doesn’t ring very true to the Marvel Universe so much as with the older stories and likely a few they made up as they went along. Regardless, it did a good job portraying Loki doing his level best to do the right thing and it becomes the wrong thing for the right reason.

Recommendation

Longer than I thought but enjoyable.

The First Book of Lost Swords: Woundhealer’s Story

February 26, 2024 by Ryan

Background

Published in October of 1986, “The First Book of Lost Swords: Woundhealer’s Story” is the first book following Fred Saberhagens “Books of Swords” series. This story follows Prince Mark as tries to save his son by the only power he knows will be strong enough to break his curse, the sword known as “Woundhealer.”

My Thoughts

The whole time I was reading the book, I had the sensation of Déjà vu. I felt like I had read this before and it turned out that I had. I remember whole swaths of the book from over 30 years ago when I read them as a teenager. I don’t know that I enjoyed them more this time but I still enjoyed them.

Recommendation

Some of it was pretty campy but I enjoyed it.

The Book of Mormon

February 10, 2024 by Ryan

Background

Published back in the 1830s, “The Book of Mormon” is the book which inspired the name “Mormons” to members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. This book is another testament to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and, with the Bible, testifies that He is the Christ! He asks that we follow him and that He loves us all.

My Thoughts

I read through this book about twice a year and read verses from it nearly daily. I am convinced it is scripture along with the Bible and they contain the words of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Recommendation

Read it and pray to the Father in the name of the Son if the book is true.

Desert Born, World Forged

January 17, 2024 by Ryan

Background

Published in early 2024, “Desert Born, World Forged” is a book by Alex Sebby who tells of his life through growing up, through the Marine Corps, and his work today. This is not the fantasy novel by the same name.

My Thoughts

With respect to my coworker, who wrote the book, this book was in sore need of an editor. Time periods change throughout it and it doesn’t seem to make sense through several chapters. The book was self published and it shows.

Recommendation

Skip this one.

How the Talmud Can Change Your Life

December 29, 2023 by Ryan

Background

Published in October of 2023, “How the Talmud Can Change Your Life” Liel Leibovitz illustrates how the ancient teachings of the Talmud provide practical insights and guidance for modern living, addressing a wide array of challenges and moral questions. Leibovitz encourages readers to engage with the Talmud’s rich narratives and debates, revealing its relevance to contemporary issues and personal growth.

My Thoughts

The book was very informative and gave me a much better hold on Jewish thought and Rabbinical teaching, in particular. I enjoy the idea of debate going on throughout time and circumstance to make the scriptures relevant in our day. However, Leibovitz makes the claim that if God Himself made a statement, it would be debated and wouldn’t carry any weight. I can’t get on board with that.

Recommendation

This was a good book as a primer into Jewish writing and theology. Particularly, their cannon of scriptures.

Jackson: The Iron Willed Commander

November 14, 2023 by Ryan

Background

Published in 2012, “Jackson: The Iron-Willed Commander,” authored by Paul Vickery, offers an insightful examination of Andrew Jackson’s ascent from humble origins to a pivotal figure in American history, focusing on his military achievements and presidential tenure. The book highlights Jackson’s unwavering determination and leadership, particularly during the War of 1812, underscoring his pivotal role in shaping American nationalism. Through exploring Jackson’s significant contributions and the challenges he overcame, Vickery portrays a leader whose influence was crucial during a formative period in the United States, leaving a lasting imprint on the nation’s trajectory.

My Thoughts

Old Hickory himself! As I was reading this, I was reminded of General Mattis. Jackson was loved by his men because he was one of them. (Or at least they saw it that way.) As a general he was fantastic and seemed to do no wrong. Of course, his treatment of the Native American’s will always follow him. He is one of those people who make you wonder if it is the events that make the man or the man that makes the events.

Recommendation

A good book

All Roads Led To Gettysburg

November 5, 2023 by Ryan

Background

Published in August of 2022, “All Roads Led to Gettysburg,” revisits the Civil War’s crucial battle with a novel lens, disputing the idea that the engagement was coincidental. He explores the pre-battle maneuvers and geographical considerations that funneled the opposing forces to Gettysburg, underscoring the roles of transportation routes and natural landscapes in dictating the battle’s dynamics. Harman’s analysis redefines our understanding of this historic clash, suggesting a degree of inevitability to the confrontation due to strategic and environmental factors.

My Thoughts

This book took a fascinating look at the geography and terrain of the civil war era and made a convincing case of the inevitability of the outcomes. I had heard quite a bit about the railroads of the North and how that helped win the war. However, this went over and beyond to roads, waterways, and so on.

Recommendation

A good read

Killers of the Flower Moon

November 3, 2023 by Ryan

Background

Published in 2017, “Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI” is a nonfiction book by David Grann. It narrates the chilling and little-known history of the Osage murders in the 1920s. The Osage Nation in Oklahoma became immensely wealthy due to oil reserves under their land, which led to a series of brutal murders as outsiders schemed to claim their wealth. The book unfolds in three parts, detailing the Osage community’s tragedy, the investigation led by the fledgling FBI, and Grann’s contemporary investigation into the murders that delves deeper into the conspiracy and its wide-reaching impact.

My Thoughts

A very sad tale of greed and corruption in American history. We love to romanticize the old West, but there were some terrible things that occurred during that period. It makes me thankful to live in our world today.

Recommendation

It was well written, but a rough topic. I have little to no desire to see the movie.

Northern Ireland: A Very Short Introduction

October 25, 2023 by Ryan

Background

Published in January of 2003, “Northern Ireland: A Very Short Introduction” is a concise book by Marc Mulholland that examines Northern Ireland’s complex history, including the rise of republicanism, the civil rights movement, and the growth of significant political groups like Sinn Féin and the DUP. The book brings the reader up to date with Northern Ireland’s history, drawing on new sources to provide fresh perspectives.

My Thoughts

A very short introduction is a little misleading. It seemed like a lot for me to take in as most of it was new information. Yet again, proof that there is so much more to the world than I have seen from this corner of it.

Recommendation

Very informative. A good read.