Ryan's Book Blog – Page 36 – I read therefore I am.

Dolly Parton Songteller

February 4, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Published in November of 2020, “Dolly Parton Songteller” provides a comprehensive look at the life and music of country music legend Dolly Parton. The book is structured around Parton’s most iconic songs, with each chapter exploring the inspiration, creation, and impact of one of her classic tracks. In addition to exploring the stories behind the music, the book also delves into Parton’s personal life, including her upbringing in rural Tennessee, her rise to fame, and her ongoing philanthropic work. The book features never-before-seen photos, personal anecdotes, and insights from Parton herself.

My Thoughts

This book was a lot of fun. Dolly Parton has always been the life of the party and she didn’t disappoint in this book.

Recommendation

Great book!

The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work

January 26, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work was published in 1999 by Dr. John Gottman who was the main name in marriage counseling before it got all touchy feely.

My Thoughts

This book was a joy to re-read. Mostly to freshen up on a bunch of things I don’t do well. This book needs to be on the shelves of every married man.

Recommendation

Phenomenal book!

Children of Dune

January 12, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Children of Dune was published back in 1976 by Frank Herbert and is the 3rd in a 6 volume series about Dune. This story is largely about the son and daughter of Paul after he heads into the desert.

My Thoughts

I didn’t really care for this book. The children were too overpowered to be much fun and his sister was a trip. Of course, that’s the idea, the cautionary tale of what can happen when you get a little too full of yourself.

Recommendation

It wasn’t terrible but I should have stopped at the first book.

The Body

January 8, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Published in 2019, “The Body: A Guide for Occupants” is written by author and physician Dr. Bill Bryson. The book is a fascinating exploration of the human body, covering everything from the digestive system and the immune system to the brain and the reproductive system. Drawing on the latest scientific research as well as historical and cultural perspectives, Bryson takes readers on a journey through the many wonders and complexities of the human body. He also delves into some of the major health challenges facing humanity today, such as obesity and antibiotic resistance.

My Thoughts

Bill Bryson did an excellent job of going through the body parts and inserting humor along the way. Mr. Bryson is not a doctor (which my wife correctly pointed out) but a researcher who brought it all under the same topic. I believe he did a good job.

Recommendation

It was worth the time and effort to get through it.

7 Habits of Highly Effective People

January 7, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Originally published in 1989 and since republished several times in many different languages. This book has become the de facto standard in self help in the business sphere.

My Thoughts

This is an outstanding book and I’ve read it several times. It isn’t meant to be read through at one sitting but is better used as a reference. However, I find it is inspiring to listen to and I get more out it each time.

Recommendation

This is a great read for anyone.

Ready Player Two

December 21, 2021 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Published in November of 2020, “Ready Player Two” is a science fiction novel written by Ernest Cline and serves as a sequel to his 2011 bestseller, “Ready Player One”. The story takes place in a near-future world where virtual reality technology has become even more advanced, and the line between the real world and the digital realm has become increasingly blurred. The story follows Wade Watts, the protagonist from the first book, as he discovers a new technological breakthrough that promises to change everything. However, as Wade and his friends delve deeper into this new world, they find themselves facing new dangers and challenges that threaten to upend everything they thought they knew.

My Thoughts

Unfortunately the quality of this book was down from the last. I really enjoyed Ready Player One but that may be it hit me perfectly as nostalgic for the 80s. This book felt tacked on.

Recommendation

Skip this one!

Battle Ground

December 18, 2021 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Battle Ground is the 17th novel in The Dresden Files. Battle Ground was published on September 29, 2020. This book wraps up the series.

My Thoughts

Due to my hosting service being terrible, I’m writing this 5 months after I read the book. However, I really did enjoy it. Harry becomes more than a little overpowered but it was all in good fun. Great series!

Recommendation

It was worth the 16 books previous

Peace Talks

December 17, 2021 by Ryan

Background

Published in July of 2020, Peace Talks is the 16th novel in The Dresden Files series. Harry’s brother is found in the wrong place at the wrong time and will soon be judged by the accords. Harry might have a chance to make things right but that’s just a chance.

My Thoughts

Much was brought together in this book and the story is reaching it’s climax. This book was a giant set up for the next book… The author was pumping out a book a year on this series and then took 6 years to get this one out. The final book came out about 6 months after this so it is really part 1 of the end.

Recommendation

Fun book but don’t start here. Go back and read the 15 previous books.

Skin Game

December 16, 2021 by Ryan

Background

Published in May of 2014, “Skin Game” is a fantasy novel by author Jim Butcher, which follows the story of Harry Dresden, a wizard and private investigator, as he becomes embroiled in a high-stakes heist with a group of dangerous criminals. In order to save the life of a friend, Dresden must work with a gang of supernatural beings to steal a powerful artifact from a heavily guarded vault. As the heist becomes increasingly complex and dangerous, Dresden must use all of his skills and wits to outsmart his adversaries and stay alive. Skin Game is the 15th book in The Dresden Files series.

My Thoughts

Back to flexible ethics… Though the author really did a good job writing this book, I didn’t care for where it took us. I do understand the necessity of the story to get to the full story arc but this wasn’t my favorite book.

Recommendation

Still fun but not my favorite.

Cold Days

December 15, 2021 by Ryan

Background

Published in November of 2012, Cold Days is the 14th book of The Dresden Files series. This book starts Harry’s service as the Winter Knight and his indoctrination to a much wider world.

My Thoughts

This was a fun set up and I’m always surprised at the level of the imagination of the author. I can feel the story starting to spin up to a bigger ending. I’m excited to see where it goes from here.

Recommendation

The next link in the chain