Heads Will Roll by Kate McKinnon, Emily Lynne

3 out of 5 stars  ***

A star-studded cast performs Heads Will Roll by Kate McKinnon and her sister, Emily Lynne. Irreverent humor fills the dialogue in a series of 10 skits where the outlandish and profane commonly occur. This Audible Audio is sure to evoke a few reflexive audible laughs from those who partake in this merry adventure of bad behavior and privilege.

Caffeine: How Caffeine Created the Modern World by Michael Pollan (Goodreads Author)

5 out of 5 stars  *****

A study on caffeine withdrawal quickly leads to the history of caffeine's existence and its interaction with nature, especially human beings. Michael Pollan writes and narrates a delightful book that informs and entertains his audience. The ancient use of coffee and tea differs today in Western Civilization but still has its spiritual bond and romance with Oriental cultures.

The obvious effect of coffee on stamina, memory, and enthusiasm makes the addictive drug in these products, caffeine, the worldwide leader in daily use and abuse. Leaders of industry give caffeine to their workers for better production and greater profits. Those who harvest the caffeine laden crops employ more slaves and traders to meet supply and demand. Sugar turns out to be a related crop in that its use in tea and coffee creates a greater demand for these products. It is fair to say that caffeine shapes our history in making giants of industry on the backs of slavery.

In the Civil War, the North make sure their soldiers drink caffeine issuing 30 pounds of coffee per month for each one. Some commanders make their men fill their canteens with coffee before battle. This is the opposite of the South who are denied coffee rations among other luxuries; like, shoes, ammunition, food. Historians say that Southerners tire more easily and harbor feelings of frustration and depression because of their circumstances. It is possible that caffeine helps the North win the war.

This reviewer enjoys the narration and the honesty of this story, itself. Caffeine positively affects so many in the world today. Its story is ongoing in societies, international relations, transportation, economies, and cultures. It is all so familiar in an individual's life that it is taken for granted, unless medical concerns raise one's attention to its effects. Having said this, it is time for this patron to pursue his third cup this morning. 

Malcolm and Me by Ishmael Reed

3 out of 5 stars  ***

This recent Audible Audio narration is by Ishmael Reed, himself, who accounts his own path that brings him to meet the man who shares this biography's title. The author meets Malcolm X as a man before he becomes the dynamic speaker and charismatic figure in black culture. Reed's assessments are honest and fair when recalling his time with Malcolm X. I find this story well written, well spoken, and interesting.

You Ought To Know Adam Wade by Adam Wade

3 out of 5 stars  ***

A personal memoir. Comedian, Adam Wade, reflects on his life. Adam describes awkwardness, low self-esteem, geekiness, humiliation, bullying, and shyness while demonstrating an ability to express himself cogently, laugh at himself, and accept himself for who he is. A natural story-teller, Adam Wade, recounts his life introspectively, highlighting pivotal moments. His story is mildly funny accented with inflections and mannerisms that easily relate to human frailty and inhibition. He is courageous enough to allow his real sensitive feelings emerge at the conclusion of certain episodes in his life exposing vulnerability, giving the rendition more character.

The Minuteman by Greg Donahue, Jonathan Davis (Goodreads Author) (Narrator)

3 out of 5 stars  ***

A quick peek into America's past concerning the Nazi party's rise in America; in particular, Newark, New Jersey. Hitler's surge in Germany affects Nazi American antisemitism to the point where a Jewish mafia takes measures to assure safety for Jewish communities. A particular group of tough guys form, The Minutemen, the Jewish mob's answer to Nazi recruitment and pro-fascist activities.

This story's protagonist is Sidney Abramowitz, an ex-boxer who changes his name to Nat Arno during his boxing days to hide his unsavory career choice from his parents. Nat goes on to become leader of The Minutemen in 1934 and passionately defends American Jews from fascism and the German-American Bund. His violent actions employ gangster techniques and demonstrate how fire fights fire during times of upheaval, revolution, and fascism's attempt to gain a foothold in America.