Nonfiction: The Art of Pilgrimage: The Seeker's Guide To Making Travel Sacred

The Art of Pilgrimage: The Seeker's Guide To Making Travel Sacred

I read this book because I love travel, yes love, not like. I also understand that travel changes people over time and in itself can be a very spiritual experience. The author of this book, Phil Cousineau, also understands this point and has traveled many places all over the world in a spiritual journey. 

Throughout the book he gives advice on people wanting to make a spiritual pilgrimage, and gives details on what happened to him. There are photographs that show popular pilgrimage sites, as well as quotes from famous travels from before. I give this book 5/5 stars because the author shows personal experience along with details from other travelers. He gives advice but doesn't talk down to the reader.

"Geared toward the modern-day pilgrim looking for inspiration and spiritual tools for the road, The Art of Pilgrimage weaves stories, myths, parables, and quotations from famous travelers of the past with practical suggestions and accounts of people on the sacred way today." Book description from Goodreads. 

                                        

                                      

                                     Good Day and Good Reading

Books I'll Be Posting In The Future

Hello :)

I haven't been posting that often recently and have decided that my blog needs a little more direction. I was posting just any nonfiction or fiction book reviews. 

From now on my reviews will be on books of the spiritual nature. These might be fiction, or nonfiction. They might be new age or Christian, Muslim or Hindu books. The books will be literature pertaining to spirituality, whatever the religion or stance may be.

I'll try to post at least one or two posts a week in the near future.

Good Day and Good Reading

Everything Guide to Writing Nonfiction

The Everything Guide to Writing Nonfiction by Richard D. Bank

I bought this book a few years ago because I want to write. I thought it would be helpful getting ideas on how to write articles, maybe even have advise on how to get published. It does. And it has much more. It has chapters on different types of nonfiction like biographies, parenting and family, religion and spirituality, previews, and even opinion pieces. It is organized in a nice fashion and has a section towards the back about how to sell your work or get published. 

"Everyone wants to be a published writer. But only a few manage to break into print. In this guide, Richard D. Bank provides expert advice to help you reach your goals of writing and selling articles, essays, and books. Featuring step-by-step instructions covering all aspects of writing, including how to:
Master the elements of creative nonfiction
Conduct interviews and take accurate notes
Find your unique voice
Develop good research and editing skills
Write with authority and confidence
Sell writing to periodicals and publishers
Whether you want to write an intimate memoir, a magazine story, or a scholarly article, you?ll find all you need to see your bylines in print."   Description by Goodreads.

                                

                                             Good Day and Good Reading

Fiction Book of the Day: Congo

Fiction Book of the Day: Congo by Michael Crichton

" Deep in the African rain forest, near the legendary ruins of the Lost City of Zinj, an expedition of eight American geologists is mysteriously and brutally killed in a matter of minutes.

Ten thousand miles away, Karen Ross, the Congo Project Supervisor, watches a gruesome video transmission of the aftermath: a camp destroyed, tents crushed and torn, equipment scattered in the mud alongside dead bodies -- all motionless except for one moving image -- a grainy, dark, man-shaped blur.

In San Francisco, primatologist Peter Elliot works with Amy, a gorilla with an extraordinary vocabulary of 620 "signs," the most ever learned by a primate, and she likes to fingerpaint. But recently, her behavior has been erratic and her drawings match, with stunning accuracy, the brittle pages of a Portuguese print dating back to 1642 . . . a drawing of an ancient lost city. A new expedition -- along with Amy -- is sent into the Congo where they enter a secret world, and the only way out may be through a horrifying death . ."   Description by Goodreads.

This is one of my favorite works by Crichton, although I love every book I've read by him. Congo and The Jurassic Park series, including Lost World, are my favorites. Most people consider them horror, I personally label them adventure, horror mix. A good read for someone who's not into Indiana Jones Adventure but still likes some, and also who's not into horror as extreme as Stephen King. This is a good medium and very well written. I don't like to give spoilers so all I'll give on the plot is the description with the addition of the ending is very shocking. That is all.

                                


                                            Good Day and Good Reading

Fiction book of the day: Wizard of Oz

Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum

You know the story. You've most likely seen the movie at least once (probably more).

However, I doubt you've read the book. There is something to reading a book, even after you have a movie memorized and could repeat it by heart. A book is always a little different, sometimes for the good and sometimes for the bad. 

"Join the wonderful world of Oz. Here is the original book that started the wonderful series and inspired the famous movie, in which Dorothy Gale is whisked from Kansas to the magical land of Oz where--with a Scarecrow, a Tin Woodman, and a Cowardly Lion--she sets off to find the illusive Wizard." Description by Goodreads.

                                        

                                              Good Day and Good Reading

Nonfiction Book of the Day: Dinosaurs

DK VISUAL Encyclopedia of Dinosaurs   Consultant Dougal Dixon

"With more than 1,000 full-color photographs, diagrams, charts, cutaway drawings, and detailed illustrations in each book, DK's Visual Encyclopedias cover everything you've ever wanted to know about animals, dinosaurs, and science." Description by Goodreads.

I got this a few years ago, mainly because I like dinosaurs and this looked like a good reference book. It was very useful in my classes when we were talking about prehistoric earth and the creatures that lived there. Don't let the title fool you, this book also has good pictures and information on other prehistoric creatures that lived during the ice age and other time periods. A good book for school, at home, or anyone interested in prehistoric creatures. 

                                          

Good Day and Good Reading

Vampire Books 3 Titles

Interview with a Vampire by Anne Rice

This is the first book of the The Vampire Chronicles series.

"Here are the confessions of a vampire. Hypnotic, shocking, and chillingly erotic, this is a novel of mesmerizing beauty and astonishing force—a story of danger and flight, of love and loss, of suspense and resolution, and of the extraordinary power of the senses. It is a novel only Anne Rice could write."  Description by Goodreads.

I like all of the Vampire Chronicles, and this is my favorite. It is the first and if you want to read the rest you have to read this first. If you have ever seen the movie, don't let it stop you from reading this.

Dracula In Love by Karen Essex

" From the shadowy banks of the river Thames to the wild and windswept Yorkshire coast, Dracula’s eternal muse, Mina Murray, vividly recounts the intimate details of what really transpired between her and the Count—the joys and terrors of a passionate affair that has linked them through the centuries, and her rebellion against her own frightening preternatural powers.
Mina’s version of this gothic vampire tale is a visceral journey into Victorian England’s dimly lit bedrooms, mist-filled cemeteries, and asylum chambers, revealing the dark secrets and mysteries locked within. Time falls away as she is swept into a mythical journey far beyond mortal comprehension, where she must finally make the decision she has been avoiding for almost a millennium. 
Bram Stoker’s classic novel offered one side of the story, in which Mina had no past and bore no responsibility for the unfolding events. Now, for the first time, the truth of Mina’s personal voyage, and of vampirism itself, is revealed. What this flesh and blood woman has to say is more sensual, more devious, and more enthralling than the Victorians could have expressed or perhaps even have imagined."  Description by Goodreads.

This is a nice version of Dracula, told through Mina's point of view. It shows many aspects of the story which aren't mentioned in the original, and many parts of the culture at that time are made more apparent. 

 

Companions of the Night by Vivian Van Velde

I read this book when I was in 7th grade and thought it would be a teenage romance novel, based on the title. What I got was a story about kidnapping, minor torture, car trips, and vampires. And a nut case who thinks he should destroy all of the vampire kind. An amazing book which I practically have memorized by now.

" When Kerry’s little brother forgets his stuffed bear at the laundry, Kerry ventures out at 11:00 p.m. to retrieve it for him. The laundry is deserted and kind of spooky, and while she’s there three men burst in, dragging a bound and bloodied young man they insist is a vampire. Kerry helps him escape, only to be caught up in a desperate game between vampire hunters and their prey." Description from Goodreads.

If you like vampire novels with some action, but not Bruce Willis crazy, and some romance but not Twilight than this is a good read.

 

Good Day and Good Reading

Classics 2 books

Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson
"The most popular pirate story ever written in English, featuring one of literature’s most beloved “bad guys,” Treasure Island has been happily devoured by several generations of boys—and girls—and grownups. Its unforgettable characters include: young Jim Hawkins, who finds himself owner of a map to Treasure Island, where the fabled pirate booty is buried; honest Captain Smollett, heroic Dr. Livesey, and the good-hearted but obtuse Squire Trelawney, who help Jim on his quest for the treasure; the frightening Blind Pew, double-dealing Israel Hands, and seemingly mad Ben Gunn, buccaneers of varying shades of menace; and, of course, garrulous, affable, ambiguous Long John Silver, who is one moment a friendly, laughing, one-legged sea-cook . . .and the next a dangerous pirate leader!
The unexpected and complex relationship that develops between Silver and Jim helps transform what seems at first to be a simple, rip-roaring adventure story into a deeply moving study of a boy’s growth into manhood, as he learns hard lessons about friendship, loyalty, courage and honor—and the uncertain meaning of good and evil."    Description from Goodreads.

I was required for school to read this in the fourth grade. I thought I'd hate it and called it a "boys" book. I was wrong. I enjoyed the book, and to this day it remains a classic that I think all children, and adults should read. If nothing else, it teaches the reader that people can change, and that there is more than meets the eye about things and people.

                                       

The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson
"In this harrowing tale of good and evil, the mild-mannered Dr. Jekyll develops a potion that unleashes his secret, inner persona—the loathsome, twisted Mr. Hyde."  Description by Goodreads.

Everyone knows the story of Dr.Jekyll and Mr.Hyde but I don't know many people who have actually read the book. Of course you know who the characters are, and in general what happens, but do you know the story?   I read this as a simple summer read and it was very Robert Louis Stevensony (yes it is a word... in my dictionary)    He has a way of writing all his own, and all of his books have a feel you can't duplicate. 
                                         

Good Day and Good Reading

Fairy Tale Retellings 3 titles

Ok, first I should say that I LOVE retellings of fairy tales. There are many I like, and or love, and these are only three of them. I'll warn you, there will be more in the future.

Beast by Donna Jo Napoli
"Meet the Beast -- before there was Beauty Orasmyn is the prince of Persia and heir to the throne. His religion fills his heart and his mind, and he strives for the knowledge and leadership his father demonstrates. But on the day of the Feast of Sacrifices, Orasmyn makes a foolish choice that results in a fairy's wretched punishment: he is turned into a beast, a curse to be undone only by the love of a woman.
Thus begins Orasmyn's journey through the exotic Middle East and sensuous France as he struggles to learn the way of the beast, while also preserving the mind of the man. This is the story of his search, not only for a woman courageous enough to love him, but also for his own redemption."
Description from Goodreads.

I like this telling of Beauty and the Beast because as both the title and description make clear, it is about the beast. It is about him before He meets Her and falls in love. It also takes place in the middle east, which is a nice change of pace given most take place in England or France (which this does venture in).   I don't like giving spoilers, cause I figure the reader likes to find things out for herself. If you like fantasy, fairy tales this is a very good book.
                                                            

Spindle's End by Robin McKinley
" All the creatures of the forest and field and riverbank knew the infant was special. She was the princess, spirited away from the evil fairy Pernicia on her name-day. But the curse was cast: Rosie was fated to prick her finger on the spindle of a spinning wheel and fall into a poisoned sleep-a slumber from which no one would be able to rouse her."     Description from Goodreads.
Ok, I read this book a couple years ago so I can't remember many of the details. I do remember that I liked it. I obviously didn't love it or I would be able to remember more about it. It is a retelling of Sleeping Beauty and a good one. Like Beast, if you like the classical fairy tales this should be one you like.     
                                                                 






                                                      

Last but not least there is Beauty by Sheri S. Tepper
"On her sixteenth birthday, Beauty, daughter of Philip, Duke of Montfort, Westfaire and Ylles, sidesteps the sleeping curse placed upon her by her wicked aunt, the fairy Carabosse -- only to be kidnapped by voyeurs from another time and place, far from the picturesque castle in 14th century England. Captivating, uncompromising and unforgettable, Beauty will carve its own unique place in the hearts and minds of readers."
A definitely unique take on Sleeping Beauty.  I liked this one, mainly because of how the plot developed and the ways the writer allowed for the characters to solve their problems. Meaning, a lot of things happen you do not expect.                                    
                                                         
Good Day and Good Reading

Fantasy: 3 titles

The Golden Compass by Phillip Pulman

       This is the first book in his series called His Dark Materials. The books take place in a parallel universe, where your soul walks beside you as a daemon. The main character Lyra is a young girl who wants to save her friends, and understand the olythieometer (I think I spelled that wrong).  All the books in the series are amazing but this starts it all out. 

A good book for young adults, or even adults.

  

 

Talon of the Silver Hawk by Raymond E. Feist

       This is the first book in the series Conclave of Shadows. I have not read the other books but I flat love this one. 

"Evil has come to a distant land high among the snow-capped mountains of Midkemia, as an exterminating army wearing the colors of the Duke of Olasko razes village after village, slaughtering men, women, and children without mercy. And when the carnage is done, only one survivor remains: a young boy named Kieli. A youth no longer, there is now but one road for him to travel: the path of vengeance. And he will not be alone. Under the tutelage of the rescuers who discovered him, Kieli will be molded into a sure and pitiless weapon. And he will accept the destiny that has been chosen for him ... as Talon of the Silver Hawk.

But the prey he so earnestly stalks is hunting him as well. And Talon must swear allegiance to a shadowy cause that already binds his mysterious benefactors -- or his mission, his honor,and his life will be lost forever."    The description is from Amazon.

 

The last book is Fire Bringer by David Clement-Davies. I've read his other series called The Sight and loved it, before I read this. I figured I wouldn't like it cause it is about elk, and I am more of a wolf person but I still gave it a shot.    To say I like this book is an understatement. I know I've read it four times since the first. 

"Young buck Rannoch was born on the night his father was murdered and into a herd of deer where hunger for power has gradually whittled away at all that is true and good. He knows he must escape to survive. Chased by stags, with their fearsome antlers sharpened for the kill, he begins a treacherous journey into the unknown, and ahead of him lies a shocking and formidable search for truth and goodwill in the shadow of the Great Mountain. One day he will have to return to his home and face his destiny among the deer to fulfill the prophecy that has persistently given them hope: that one day a fawn will be born with the mark of an oak leaf on his forehead and that fawn's courage will lead all the deer to freedom. Filled with passion and a darkness that gradually, through Rannoch's courage in the face of adversity, lifts to reveal an overwhelming feeling of light, Fire Bringer is a tremendous, spirited story that takes the reader deep into the hearts and minds of its characters as they fight for their right to live in peace."  The description comes from Goodreads.
If you like the Warriors series, Guardians of Gahoole, even the Incredible Journey this should be a book you like.

Good Day and Good Reading

National Audubon Society ID books

There are many books by the National Audubon Society, most of which are identification books for anything and everything.

I have read, and own, at least a dozen books by the N.A.S. and all the books that I've read are very good at doing what they are intended for, identification. They do not have a ton of information about the items in mention, but they help you look up a plant, animal, rock, shell etc. and then know what you have and can start your search to learn more.

Many of the N.A.S. books look like this.  A book that can fit in a large pocket, or in a backpack easily, and has a leather (or faux leather) cover. They always have color images with real pictures not drawing.  I used to use them for animal identification when I was in high school. 

I'd highly recommend these books to anyone who is interested in learning about animals, or being able to know what the animals are.

Good Day and Good Reading. 

Vlademir Tod Chronicles

The Chronicles of Vladimir Tod, written by Heather Brewer.

I started reading this series after I bought one from the school's book fair. I was hooked after the very first. Since then, I've read each of them, and I would rather not give any "spoilers". 

If you like vampire books, but don't want excessive romance or violence it is a good series. I liked the way the plot developed and how the characters changed. 

Here is the description of the first book

"Vlad has to keep his vampire urges under control while dealing with the pressures of middle school. Thirteen-year-old Vladimir Tod really hates junior high. Bullies harass him, the principal is dogging him, and the girl he likes prefers his best friend. Oh, and Vlad has a secret: His mother was human, but his father was a vampire. With no idea of the extent of his powers, Vlad struggles daily with his blood cravings and his enlarged fangs. When a substitute teacher begins to question him a little too closely, Vlad worries that his cover is about to be blown. But then he faces a much bigger problem: He’s being hunted by a vampire killer."    The description comes from Amazon.

If you like the first one I promise the next ones will not disappoint. 

Good Day and Good Reading.