Book Review #6 "The Girl From the Train" by Irma Joubert

Hi Everyone,
     I will be discussing the book "The Girl From the Train" by Irma Joubert. First and most important I want to thank Netgalley, Thomas Nelson (the publisher), and Irma Joubert (the author) for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review. I chose this book to read because of the specific time frame it took place during World War II. I have always been interested in books about this war. The plot of this book reminded me that the times of World War II seems eerily similar to what is going on today regarding the Muslim religion.
     This book is about a six year old girl Gretl in World War II who escaped from a train that was bombed by Jakob a polish man. Jakob then takes responsibility for Gretl. In Poland she survives by hiding her German and Jewish roots by becoming a Polish Catholic. Eventually hard decisions must be made and she ends up in South Africa where again she must survive by hiding her Polish, Jewish, and Catholic identities. This book ultimately is about the bond that forms between Gretl and Jakob and how their lives are intertwined. This book is about survival, about the clashes between different cultures and religions. And how people learn to accept each others different beliefs and culture. This book is also about how traumatic events in the past can affect you in your present life. This book was about Gretl who is known by many names. It told the story of how she grew up and found herself, a bit of a coming of age novel. In reading this book it was very evident of the author's love for her homeland, South Africa. The author Irma Joubert is a South African writer who specializes in historical fiction. And this book was a very enriching story.
     Overall, I would rate this book 4 stars out of 5. This book was bittersweet. What I enjoyed most was the joyful, peaceful, and hopeful feelings it created within me. This book was even more surprising because I wasn't expecting to feel these positive feelings, being that most books and stories I have read about World War II are horrifying. Don't get me wrong this book had some horrifying moments. This was a true love story about the different kinds of love. That love can survive anything. I really enjoyed the main character Gretl, her childish innocence, her wonder and awe. I enjoyed seeing her grow older, more mature and wise for her years.
     One thing that I felt could have been improved upon in this book was that some sections, especially at the end were rushed, and should have been expanded upon. This book was beautifully written, I could feel the author's words. I felt how the author poured her emotions, poured her soul into the written words in this book. This book allowed your imagination to expand. and grow. You can see the story being played out in your head while reading the book. I had a very pleasant experience reading this book. I too felt the butterflies in my stomach hopefully you will to. If you want to join in on this ride than click HERE to purchase a copy of this book.

Until the next page,
Jill

P.S. I want to with everyone a very happy holiday. This may be my last post before the holidays. It is going to be a busy week. Not only preparing for the holidays but I am moving three days after Christmas, so will be busy packing also. Due to this it may be a couple of weeks until I am able to post again.

Book Review #5 "The Man in the Monster" by Martha Elliott

Hey Everyone,
    I will be discussing the book "The Man in the Monster" by Martha Elliott. First and foremost I want to thank Netgalley, Penguin Press (the publisher), and Martha Elliott (the author) for the opportunity to read this in exchange for an honest review. I chose this book to read because hey, who is not interested in reading about serial killers? The story took place in Connecticut, the state I grew up in, as well as the author Martha Elliott. I am glad that before reading this book I did not or do not recall hearing about this case. I was able to read it with a complete open mind not previously exposed to media reports of this case. However, before choosing this book to read I was a little skeptical starting the book. I was worried since the author has had a long relationship stemming from an interview with the serial killer to forming a friendship with him, I was concerned that this book was going to glorify Michael Ross (the serial killer). However this was not the case and I was pleasantly surprised.
     Overall I would rate this book 4 stars out of 5. This book is the closest thing you are going to get to going inside a serial killer's mind. The serial killer this book discussed was Michael Ross who raped, and killed 8 women. He was given the death penalty and in this case Michael Ross accepted and fought for his own death sentence. This book brings up a lot of issues, how does one become a serial killer? Did mental illness cause the killer's actions and behavior? And the death penalty, is it right or wrong? This book was an in depth portrayal inside a serial killer. One of the major reasons in which made this book really good was because of the author's friendship and trust that formed with Michael Ross. After 10 years of communicating with a person, you are going to form some sort of relationship and build trust no matter whether the person is a devil or a saint. It was because of this relationship that the reader was able to get so close to inside Michael Ross's mind. I was amazed how the author was able to see the human being in Michael Ross while still at the same time hold him responsible and accountable for his monstrous behavior. The author kept true to herself throughout the entire book.
     One of the things that could have made this book better was its, organization. It was a strong beginning where the author wrote her reasons, her goals, her beliefs and opinions in writing this book. I felt that it would have been more effective starting at chapter 2 if it began then with Michael Ross's childhood, his history, leading up to his crimes and the present. And also if it intertwined back and forth from Michael's childhood to one of his main victim's childhood up to where their lives collided.
     This book wasn't just a story of a serial killer, it brought up a lot more controversial issues than the life of a serial killer. I mentioned earlier that this book discussed mental illness (in terms of it being a mitigating factor involved with crime) and the death penalty (whether it is right or wrong). Amazingly, even though the author made it clear of where she stands on these issues, she was able to present the two opposing sides for each of these issues. She did it in a way that it allowed you to form your own opinion separate from hers. As for me, usually I do know where I stand and hold firm to my beliefs on controversial issues. However when talking about whether the death penalty is right or wrong I am not sure where I stand. It isn't all black or white. There is a lot of gray matter in between. I would like to say that I am against the death penalty but I can't say it with confidence because of how every situation is different and cannot be measured or compared. With mental illness, I do believe that having a mental illness can affect and cause immoral behaviors, but then it brings up the question of how to prove that? Unfortunately this question comes up because there have been cases in the past where mental illness was used falsely, so those circumstances lead us to question all the cases.
     This book was a chilling, but thought provoking read. It was a compelling read. I would recommend this to everyone. Most serial killer stories are told from an outsider's point of view. This one is different from the rest as it goes inside the serial killer's mind. I think we all have a little bit of a morbid curiosity, and this book will fulfill that need, in more ways than one. For those who are interested in reading this book, click HERE to purchase this book.

Until the next page,
Jill

Review #4 "Under the Black Flag" by Sami Moubayed

Hey Everyone,
     I am going to review "Under the Black Flag" by Sami Moubayed. First I want to thank Netgalley, I.B. Tauris (the publisher), and Sami Moubayed (the author) for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review. I chose this book to read because being that ISIS is all over the place, I wanted to learn more about it, then what is being portrayed on U.S. media. I in particular chose this book because the author Sami Moubayed is a native of Syria and is specialized in Syrian History. I chose this book because I wanted to read this subject coming from the middle east region and specifically not from the U.S. I guess I assumed that I wouldn't get straightforward honest information if it came from elsewhere. I appreciated the risks that this author took in writing this book. Overall I would rate this book 4 stars out of 5.
     For anyone who wants to know more about ISIS about its full history, how it formed, how it grew, what forces enabled ISIS to form and grow, what ISIS's goals, beliefs, and vision are, then you need to read this book. If you are interested in buying this book click HERE. I think it is important and essential for people to be informed about ISIS in its true form, not just what you hear on the news. It is important to understand the nature of ISIS. Without being informed, it is too easy to make false assumptions, judgements and jump to the wrong conclusions. This book did an excellent job on educating its readers. It told a full straight forward story of ISIS. The book was well organized, it was clear, concise and to the point. The author told the story how it was. And some parts of the book were quite chilling to read. This book was able to answer a lot of questions I had about ISIS. It allowed me to put ISIS in perspective in a way that it was not like the sensationalized, fear-mongering media sources you hear everyday on the news. It surprised me that ISIS is not just a group of bad guys, it is a fully functioning government and society that is run by bad guys. I can understand the lure of ISIS of what draws people to it, how some join willingly and others are forced to submit to it. The fear and panic that ISIS creates in getting people to do what they want.  I am not sympathizing with ISIS I am merely saying I can understand why ISIS is so big.
     The only thing I can say was a downside to this book, was that it did not really have any personalization to it, that I was wishing for. I wanted to hear the author's voice more, just wanted little touches here and there throughout the book. By this I mean this book was a more straightforward chronology and history of ISIS, I would have liked to hear a little about the author's personal thoughts, experiences and opinions on what he is writing. I can understand why he chose not to. It didn't take anything away from this book it just would have been an added perk.
     The most powerful statement of this book was right at the end. It summed everything up with a perfect well said statement. Basically the author states that the problem is not with the Islamic State but with its leaders. That if ISIS was lead with a fair, just, non-violent leaders, then this book would have been a totally different story than it is being played out today. I am glad I read this book, I gained a lot of information and helpful knowledge out of this book and I hope that you will too.

Until the next page,
     Jill

Book Review #3 "Concussion" by Jeanne Marie Laskas

Hey Everybody!
    Hope you all are well. For this post I am reviewing the recently released (November 24, 2015) book "Concussion" by Jeanne Marie Laskas, which is also being made into a movie set to be released on Christmas. I want to first of all thank Netgalley, Random House Trade Paperbacks (the publisher), and Jeanne Marie Laskas (the author) for an Advanced Reading Copy in return for an honest review. For those of you who haven't yet bought this book, now is the time to do it. You have 21 days to read it before the movie comes out on Christmas. To buy a copy of this book please click HERE.
     I would give this book 4 stars out of 5. This book was so much more than the story of Dr. Omalu's discovery of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) and the uproar it caused with the NFL. It was about Dr. Omalu, his journey spanning across two continents in finding himself. It is about a man who is determined to find the truth, find the answers to his questions. Dr. Omalu is a man of conviction, he has a strong moral character and doesn't back down when he is doubted or questioned. He stands up for what's right no matter what. It is the story and life of Dr. Omalu his own intimate narrative. And yes it is the stories of the retired football players who suffered with CTE and their long battle with the NFL.
     The author did such an excellent job of bringing Dr. Omalu to life. Reading this book felt so real, it was like I was observing Dr. Omalu's life and seeing his life through his eyes. This book was an eye opener, it boldly told the story exactly how it happened, nothing was sugarcoated or exaggerated, it told it like it was. It presented the timeline of events, the hardcore truth, the facts which allowed the reader to form his/her own opinions. This story portrayed how Dr. Omalu's Nigerian and American culture connected and collided with each other. Dr. Omalu was able to connect and related with the football players who suffered with CTE, and through this connection was how he made the discovery that would set the NFL into a frenzy. This story is sad, it could have been told in a pessimistic, cynical tone. However, it wasn't it was hopeful and inspiring, it told a story of tenacity, courage, hope, and conviction.
     The only criticism I can make was the beginning of the book was choppy it didn't flow well. I wish the story didn't start with the courtroom scene in the U.S. The storyline picked up and was a lot smoother after the second chapter. Overall this book was well done. It was a story worth telling. And I hope the movie will be just as great as the book is. The movie has a lot to live up to. So treat yourself to an early holiday gift and buy this book today so you can enjoy it as much as I did.

Until the next page,
Jill
   

Book Review #2 "The Lunar Chronicles" by Marissa Meyer

Hi Everyone

     I hope you all had a great Thanksgiving and didn't get too full and tired to stop you from turning the pages of the book you are reading. I just finished reading "Winter" from the "Lunar Chronicles" by Marissa Meyer. The "Lunar Chronicles" consists of "Cinder," "Scarlet," "Cress," Fairest," "Winter" and coming on February 2, 2016 her finale installment consisting of short stories "Stars Above." Overall I would rate the series 3.75 stars out of 5.
     What does this series consist of? Well, it is a combination of parts of some of your favorite fairy tales. This book takes you back in time. It brings on the comforting feeling of nostalgia. It is a combination of your favorite parts of fairy tales. It retells them in a new story, than the ones you are familiar with. But yet that is not all, Marissa Meyer adds a science fiction element to the series. This was a risk taken by the author. Because at first glance you may be skeptical, wondering how science fiction and fairy tales fit together. But put your worries aside, this actually worked out well, in the way that it expanded the storyline. It allowed the storyline to venture in different directions and took you to different places. This series, as I just wrote puts all of your favorite characters, from the fairy tales you know, and combines them into one story. Imagine if Cinderella became friends with Little Red Riding Hood and Rapunzel and other notable characters. There is your Prince Charming, wolves, robots, Captain Hook, aliens and of course the evil queen. It goes from huge castles, to farms and woods, to spaceships, and to another planet. Put this all together and what do you get, well "The Lunar Chronicles," of course.
     For the most part this series was organized very well. Each book in a way focused on a different character and that character's story. Each book was part of the whole. The story flowed very seamlessly from one book to the next. Except for "Winter." "Winter" attempted to follow this seamless transition but failed. The problem with "Winter" while trying to conclude the whole series, had too much going on. It was like the characters and plots were colliding with each other instead of being able to pass through. I think this book in particular took on more than it could chew. Being that all the books up until now were good, I was a little disappointed when it came to "Winter"
     This series took on a lot of central plots and themes. It brought forth the issue body shaming. That we all have different bodies, and we all need to accept and have confidence in the way we are shaped. It is not what is on the outside that counts but what is inside. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. That all beings are equal and should be treated the same regardless of what they look like. And beauty can be a curse. Things aren't what they seem to be. We all put on our own glamours in trying to present ourselves the way we want to be seen. And as you will see, in one's desire to be beautiful it is not everything. That desire can sometimes present itself as an enemy and bring out the worst. The desire can turn against one and can be one's own demise.
     I did like how the series took on some political and socioeconomic aspects. It brought up again the importance of equality, justice. It talked about oppression. It brought up how the governmental forces have the ability to control and oppress people. How the governmental forces often and can present itself as a facade, a glamour. It publicizes what society wants to see an ideal, utilitarian, fair, just, equal ruling force. It has the capacity to lie and spread lies. It is up to society to see through this facade to face reality and to join forces and confront this facade. Equality was a main fighting force, how one should get rid of the class system, and hand out resources equally and fairly regardless of what that person looks like or how much money that person has.
     But, there is always hope, as you will see, giving up is not an option. Bravery, courage, kindness, respect, friendship, trust are the ingredients to change. And these ingredients will be present throughout the series.
     This was an entertaining series, it kept me reading, it kept my attention all the way through. It was what you expected it to be. And I am glad it was what I expected and not less. In a way though I wanted it to surpass my expectations, I wanted the series to push and keep pushing the boundaries. I know it should be enough that it met my expectations. However, as I kept reading and reading I kept thinking and hoping that it would shatter my expectations and it ended up just being a shy short. Reading this series was a great adventure and I don't regret any of it. And I don't think you will either.
If you are interested in reading this series you can purchase it Here

Keep turning those pages
Jill

P.S. Stay tuned for my next all exclusive review thanks to Netgalley of "Blackballed: The Black and White Politics of Race on America's Campuses" by Lawrence C. Ross. Learn about it here first, before it's sell date of February 2, 2016.