12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos by Jordan B. Peterson, Norman Doidge (Forward)

4 out of 5 stars  ****

Writings from an acclaimed teacher and author, Jordan B. Peterson, 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos, is written from answers he gives to an internet site that encourages discussion on various topics. His responses are so popular and relative that he decides to write a book about them. 

This book explores how people interact and why they are harmonious or at odds. He refers to people's belief systems, their life codes, by which they rate others. Peterson explains, in depth, 12 rules that can create order in chaos. His purpose is to provide an approach to life's dilemmas that create meaning and limit strife. A life with meaningful purpose can overcome most obstacles.

"Stand up straight with your shoulders back," is Rule One; Rule Two, "Treat yourself like someone you are responsible for helping; ...Make friends with people who want the best for you," is Rule Three; Rule Four, "Compare yourself to who you were yesterday;" Rule Five, "Do not let your children do anything that makes you dislike them;" Rule Six, "Set your house in perfect order before you criticize the world;" Rule Seven, "Pursue what is meaningful, not what is expedient; ...Tell the truth or, at least, don't lie," is Rule Eight; Rule Nine, "Assume that the person you are listening to might know something you don't;" Rule Ten, "Be precise in your speech;" Rule Eleven, "Do not bother children when they are skateboarding;" and Rule Twelve, "Pet a cat when you encounter one on the street, dogs are okay, too." 

The above twelve rules encompass the wisdom of great authors in literature and theology as well as Jordan Peterson's genius in using their observations to contribute to each chapter. The encouragement and joy that is the experience of life roots itself in order and clears the smoke of chaos. 

Explore the Bible: 2 Samuel - Bible Study Book by Jason Allen

5 out of 5 stars  *****

This weekly bible study, 2 Samuel, is about David, the man who is after God's heart. The life of David from little shepherd boy whose faith in God gives him the courage to face Goliath, the giant Philistine champion, to King David, the older man whose past sins cause death and turmoil in the King's household. The study exposes this biblical hero as a man fraught with flaws just as all mankind has. The marked difference in David from most men is his genuine sincerity with repentance once he realizes his sin. The lesson taught through David's life is that all sin must exact a cost; so all calamities and tragedies are not necessarily shaping tools in God's hands; they can be repercussions from past sins, as well. Also, the need for God, His Holy Spirit, and His only begotten son, Jesus Christ, are essential for justification of our sins and salvation for eternal life once this mortal one ends.

Andrew Jackson and the Miracle of New Orleans: The Battle That Shaped America's Destiny

5 out of 5 stars  *****

A brief background about Andrew Jackson's beginnings and his perseverance in most difficult situations preludes the Battle of New Orleans. This city is crucial for control of the territory west of the Mississippi River and the wealth such a port provides via trade from Northern and Midwestern regions in North America. If the British capture the city, America could easily collapse as a new country. The British destruction of Washington D.C. scatters the United States government into survival mode. Recent military victories at Fort Henry and Pensacola bolster US spirits but the battles are without reinforcements from a centralized government and a Secretary of War, James Monroe, who recently adds that hat to his Secretary of State collection, an onus he accepts from President Madison due to the casualties of war. 

The author narrates this well-written account with excitement and energy. Brian Kilmeade provides readers with his passion for the subject. He acquaints his audience with the characteristics that set Andrew Jackson apart from most of his contemporaries. 

The Battle of New Orleans showcases Jackson's talent as a tactician, leader, and inspiration to those who follow and fight with him. The man makes enemies as easily as he makes decisions and he is a decisive individual who assesses men, animals, terrain, and his enemy better than most. Kilmeade describes the genius behind events, how outnumbered and over-matched people come together to repulse the mighty British Navy and sophisticated, seasoned soldiers in the climax. This historical turning point in America's story exists because of a sense of duty and drive of one man, General Andrew Jackson.

A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court by Mark Twain, Nick Offerman (Narrator)

4 out of 5 stars  ****

A nineteenth century dying man dreams about being transposed into thirteenth century England, Camelot, where he uses his Yankee wit and ingenuity to survive. He encounters knights, noblemen, peasants and wizards. He not only survives, he rises to a rank that makes him a feared opponent throughout England and a prosperous friend and adviser to the King. He gives himself the title, The Boss. Humor keeps the story moving along as The Boss anticipates and plans maneuvers to stay one step ahead of his dazzled subjects. Merlin the magician, once bested, is a major protagonist in the plot because of his lost prestige.

Mark Twain writes this story using the Old English vernacular for the simple folk and the pompous Royal King's English for King Arthur's Court. Twain masters the dialect appropriate for each character spoken expertly by narrator, Nick Offerman. The author's use of this historical fantasy setting and an epic tale of chivalry breathes life into his own story that applies future principles to yesteryear's issues. Twain leaves his mark on Camelot as only he can. 

American Pharoah: The Untold Story of the Triple Crown Winner's Legendary Rise by Joe Drape

5 out of 5 stars  *****

A joy encounter with greatness, I learn about the athletics, friendly temperament, and magnetic pull of the horse with a misspelled name, American Pharoah. Everyone who cares for this Triple Crown Winner falls in love with his personality and grace. Birther, trainer, rider, and owner are characters who reveal magnificence when they describe the journey of the foal, colt, pony, horse. Bob Baffert, the trainer, tells how easy his favorite horse makes winning.

Baffert is modest in giving the horse all the credit even though he claims American Pharoah is built for speed and hardly needs any prodding to kick into high gear. The trainer discovers early on that this horse becomes unsettled by loud noise and disruption in his normal routine. Baffert puts earplugs in the young horse's ears for a while while training him and American Pharoah overcomes the impediment that would make him inconsistent and prone to injury by being overwrought.

The colorful world of the oldest sport in America unfolds in this book with its accounts of the big money, international players, and bigger-than-life personalities unafraid to show their emotions for the people and animals that become significant parts of their lives. A deep appreciation for the work ethic, devotion, and humanity that goes into horse racing is with what I come away.

I finish this book the day after Bob Baffert accomplishes the feat that eludes him by a nose more than once, once more. Another Baffert trained horse, Justify, wins the Triple Crown for 2018. I, now, feel part of his story thanks to Joe Drape's professional, engaging abilities as an author and Aaron Abano's excellent narration. 

How God Makes Men: Ten Epic Stories. Ten Proven Principles. One Huge Promise for Your Life. by Patrick Morley

5 out of 5 stars  *****

The best qualities in men are shaped by the suffering and trials they overcome on their path of maturation. God's will is not always man's because free will allows choices based on desires within this world where mankind is mortal flesh. To be a man who inspires others but, more importantly, praises God, requires selflessness to serve and complete surrender to trust in God. 

Patrick Morley uses ten men in the bible to demonstrate how God makes men according to His will and not their own which tries to make God a servant to their desires. Thought-provoking questions follow each chapter. They arouse insight and introspection within the reader. Accounts of divine intervention reveals Abraham's faith, Joseph's perseverance, Moses' humility, Gideon's courage, David's heart, Solomon's wisdom, Nehemiah's zeal, Job's integrity, Peter's boldness, and Paul's passion. This book aligns man's efforts to the will of God for His glory and man's well being.

Tolkien and the West: Recovering the Lost Tradition of Europe (The Modern Scholar) by Michael D.C. Drout

5 out of 5 stars  *****

This Audiobook is a pleasure because of its subject and enthusiasm of the author in his presentation. Drout's understanding of Tolkien from his personal perspective captivates an audience in this scholastic effort to explain the genius behind Western literature's most widely read author. This student's appreciation of the Hobbit, Lord of the Rings, and the Silmarillion is greater and fresher in my mind now that I finish this class by a real Tolkien fan, Michael D.C. Drout.

Three Minutes to Doomsday: An Agent, a Traitor, and the Worst Espionage Breach in U.S. History by Joe Navarro

5 out of 5 stars  *****

This is a well written, true story about espionage and investigation by those who are elite in their field and how bureaucracy between agencies can bog down efficient efforts to resolve cases. The job takes its toll on families and personnel as intrigue and intellect carry this interesting plot without hot pursuits and buckets of blood. 

Joe Navarro is the protagonist and author. Opportunists, Clyde Conrad and Rod Ramsey, are genius antagonists. George Newbern narrates through the protagonist, who has an uncanny ability to read body language and retain details without taking notes. Minor characters are fleshed out enough to support major characters and contribute their personal qualities necessary for continuity and flow in this drama of perilous possibilities that can topple power in a precarious world. Thank God for the talent and integrity of the duty-bound men like Joe Navarro.

The Reason for God: Belief in an Age of Skepticism by Timothy J. Keller

5 out of 5 *****

My faith is deeper and apologetics stronger after listening to The Reason for God: Belief in an Age of Skepticism. Timothy Keller narrates his book that talks to our innate soul. He produces evidence and corroboration of what the Bible says today as legitimate to what is presupposed to be the Word of God. More than this, Keller appeals to that center in all of us that we call a conscience. It is in this realm that we sense wrong from right and question ethics and morality. The greater theme is our search for that which is greater than ourselves. 

Society is trending toward separation of God from the secular. Logic and reasoning dictates that if we accept a triune God then such a separation is impossible since the Creator is intimate with His creation. Non-believers and skeptics rely on their own assumptions that fall short of explaining the uniformity of the universe. For us believers practice of our faith becomes harder but not impossible in today's environment. 

Some say that God would never punish His creatures He loves. They have many questions about the nature of God and arrive at a conclusion that permits them to have it their way without fear of any consequences for their actions. This way of thinking comes from those who won't accept the Bible as His Word. Many assume their answers to their questions without even reading the Bible which is authoritative and distinct when it answers such concerns. 

A profound idea comes out of this book about judgment. On the Day of Judgment we may say to God, "Thy will be done," but Jesus will turn our very words on us, "Thy will be done." If I live my life for myself and exercise my will for my personal benefit, then my life does not depict what my words intend. God is not condemning anyone to Hell; rather, we condemn ourselves to Hell by the choices we make while here, on Earth.

Writing Creative Nonfiction by Tilar J J. Mazzeo

4 out of 5 stars  ****

Tilar J J. Mazzeo proclaims something I know, writing is hard. She repeats how difficult it is and then proceeds to instruct me and attendees of her lectures on the concepts of good writing. Some of these concepts are difficult to grasp and consistently apply. Writing becomes the active process that gnaws at my inclination to passively watch TV or surf the internet, my habits. Writing is work. Mazzeo does not even own a television, even though she likes movies and TV shows. TV interferes with her job of writing. Well, that tells me something about my approach to any writing endeavors. Writing is more of an afterthought hobby to me and not my job. If I want to be taken seriously about anything I write, I must adjust my approach to it. I want it to be enjoyable but many worthwhile efforts produce joy after sweat and tears. I wish to write something that people regard as a delight, even if the conclusion is sad or horrible. Tedious research is necessary to write the nonfiction that has not already been written. I write two fictions and experience the time and dedication writing requires. Fiction allows me to be master of the story. This is not easy but it is easier to have such control over all elements compared to writing nonfiction which demands truth and accuracy. If I betray the rule of truth and accuracy, my future in nonfiction, along with my integrity, is doomed. I read and listen to many books on writing from the Great Courses' Audiobooks and other lecture series as well as "How To" books by published authors and teachers. Writing Creative Nonfiction covers advanced tools for writing a proper book, pitch, or letter for those who desire to become writers worthy of publication. Mazzeo refers to a Travel Book written so well that it becomes a movie, Under the Tuscan Sun. This course teaches about creating lively, interesting nonfiction from character description, relevancy, consistency of pace and direction so that the work flows to a thoughtful conclusion. Examples of techniques show, not tell, how to write versions of each chapter's subject. In the end Mazzeo explains what to do about writing, "Write." I am guilty of procrastination on writing and many other difficult tasks in my life. Writers are, too, the author shares. She makes this task less daunting by telling me to just write and the techniques I learn come sooner or later but they never transpire if I do not write.

Leap (Breakthrough, #2) by Michael C. Grumley (Goodreads Author)

5 out of 5 stars  *****

Scientists are involved with primate communication instead of dolphins in this second book of the Breakthrough series. Countries, like China and Russia, along with their scientists and military forces are active as antagonists in the story. The pivotal points of the plot are rich with thrilling adventure and death that leads to despair for the protagonists. From the middle of the narrative to the approach of the end, excitement and intrigue simmer until characters from the first book turn the tide in favor of the heroes, but not without a cost. The climax crescendos and ends with open questions and disturbing thoughts in the midst of apparent victory.

Michael C. Grumley elaborates on the romantic aspect between two of the main characters in this book. With clarity in the relationship comes concern for each other's safety. Life appears more fragile when one dances with death. Closure is only temporary in the Breakthrough world. What ends with a sigh of relief is not happily ever after; instead, gratitude for the moment suffices until the loose ends of this escapade are secure.

The science fiction contribution to Grumley's adventures are smart and thought provoking. The Leap explanation is understandably logical but the ambitious push of mankind for resources strains wisdom with an urgency that, often times, is reckless to obtain the discoveries that create power, control, and wealth. Grumley's scientific breakthroughs initiate crises which require the best of mankind to overcome the worst. 

The Pilgrim's Progress by John Bunyan

5 out of 5 stars  *****

This story flows with characters having names that are actual human qualities. For example, Christian and Hope encounter many obstacles and characters on their pilgrimage to the Celestial City. Some of the people Christian encounters have names like Faithful and Pliable, who is scorned by townspeople for not being able to stay on track when necessary. Bunyan uses this opportunity to refer to scripture, Jeremiah: 29:18, 19, when he writes, "...because he hath forsaken the way." 

Like life, trials and tribulations pave the path to righteousness. Therefore, many pilgrims go astray and enter into suspect places that also bear names of qualities; city of Destruction or the Slough of Despond. Faithful encounters a hill called Difficulty where he meets an old man named Adam the First from the town of Deceit. Adam offers Faithful a place to stay where he can enjoy delicious food, live his desires, and use his slaves that he has, "of his own begetting." Then he tempts Faithful with his three daughters, the Lust of the Flesh, the Lust of the Eyes, and the Pride of Life. Bunyan refers to 1 John: 2:16, at this time. 

Faithful, later, explains to Christian that he refuses Adam's tantalizing offer due to his suspicion of becoming another one of Adam's slaves. Adam is so angry at Faithful's decision that he sends someone after him as Faithful climbs Difficulty. That someone catches Faithful and shows no mercy knocking him back down the hill and nearly killing him. The pilgrim is spared when one with holes in his hands and in his side passes by and bids the merciless one to restrain himself. 

Christian, talking to Faithful about his recount, tells him that the man who overtakes him is Moses, who does not show mercy to those who transgress the law. Obviously, the one who forbears Moses from his merciless duty is Jesus Christ, who forgives all who accept him of their transgressions with His crucifixion. The author, Paul Bunyan, does not spell out this meaning in the story; rather, the story moves along with another tale when Faithful meets Discontent in the Valley of Humility.

Their adventures require that Christian and Faithful depend on each other to keep themselves vigilant; to focus on their goal when one falters. Shepherds give them advice along the way but the pilgrims forget their wisdom and suffer admonishment to learn the lesson that puts them back on the right path. Bunyan's brilliance shines in this delightful book which creates a world of fiction about the pertinent life messages in the Bible. The imagery transcends all age groups making this one of my favorite classics.

Breakthrough (Breakthrough #1) by Michael C. Grumley (Goodreads Author), Meghan Wolf (Narrator)

5 out of 5 stars  *****

Breakthrough is just what I needed after reading and listening to non-fiction of various styles and eras. Michael C. Grumley pens a yarn of military and scientific adventure that thrills the reader with its pace and tone. The protagonists are humanly flawed and the antagonist is a hot-headed, power hungry military brass who reacts impulsively in a crisis. Outcomes are somewhat fairy-tale-ending but they do not detract from the entertainment of this novel.

Breakthrough is the first of a series. A sample of book #2 follows the last chapter of this narrative. Book #1 stands on its own as a complete story but there is plenty of room to elaborate on the protagonists with their livelihoods. The sample does its job with Leap, the next volume in the Breakthrough saga. I plan to follow up with it next.

Democracy in America: The Complete and Unabridged Volumes I and II by Alexis de Tocqueville

5 out of 5 stars  *****

Volume II 

Tocqueville observes the American growth in art, agriculture, trade, expansion, and politics. Andrew Jackson is president at this time and the North and South are divided on the issue of slavery. Morality from the Northern manufacturers and mariners threatens the livelihoods of the Southern plantation owners who have rationalized slavery to fit their desires. The author has serious doubts about these two factions reconciling their differences. 

Tocqueville admires American women for the respect they have for themselves, their savvy social interaction, and the ease with which they express their faith living in the world based on their own terms. They are industrious, as are most Americans. 

Unlike Europe, art is not appreciated for the art, itself; rather, Americans appreciate art that is useful and practical. Education differs also in that there is not an upper or royal class in young America. Europe teaches its royalty in the finer aspects of life without guilt or shame. Royalty is not expected to work at all; rather, its life of leisure is spent refining manners and language that separate them from the working class. Americans take great pride in their work and educate their offspring to do the same, as the Bible teaches.

Tocqueville observes that even though particular states may differ socially and politically, they are all united in their love of freedom as outlined in their two famous documents, the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution. This Volume II of Democracy in America contains the actual words of that Declaration of Independence. The author knows that mere words cannot create a thriving country where its citizens live in harmony, despite the slavery issue. 

American principles do not produce the same results in other countries who model their governments off of America; Mexico, for example. Tocqueville is astute in pointing out who, exactly, make up these two governments. It is not in the government design but in the people, themselves. 

Mexico is settled by conquistadors on a quest for riches. America has some of those opportunists in its history but is mainly settled by people looking for a place to practice their religion in peace. Never before is there such an opportunity for adventurous, persecuted, religious people to find their way across a wide ocean and into a raw, rich, promising nation that offers freedom and liberties at a price of forbearance they are all willing to endure. 

Tocqueville does a thorough job explaining the intangible shared qualities necessary for America to prosper, at all. The remarkable rise of America and the unity among its population in areas of significance is what brings Alexis Tocqueville to America in the first place. 

From Bondage to Liberty: The Gospel According to Moses by Anthony Selvaggio

5 out of 5 stars  *****

From Passover to the Last Supper, Moses and Jesus Christ start new Covenants with God. Moses brings the Covenant of The Law, the Ten Commandments most importantly. Jesus Christ brings a spiritual covenant by dying on the cross for mankind's sins and resurrecting from the dead to promise eternal life for all who follow Him. Blood sacrifices are no longer necessary as Jesus pays that price with his blood. Mankind is not saved by works obeying the Law but by faith, alone, in the Messiah, Jesus. 

Moses builds a house for God, the tabernacle, according to God's specifications so that Moses could communicate with God for His people. This happens after the Israelites worship a golden calf that Aaron, Moses's brother, allows them to make. Moses was receiving those Ten Commandments when the Israelites turn away from the One who chooses them to carry out His plan. They lose out in having a direct communication with God. 

That tabernacle houses God and is representative of Christ who is man and God. The new covenant allows a direct communication with God via the Holy Spirit and Jesus Christ. This is the Holy Trinity, God in each each, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. A more intimate relationship may develop like Moses has with his direct line to God. 

To become a vessel for the Holy Spirit one must let go of earthly and personal desires. Moses wanders in the desert, at first, to empty himself of pride and become the man who leads God's chosen people out of enslavement and into a Promised Land. This transformation requires trust in God and thankfulness for what God bestows by His mercy and grace. A Christian may fill up with God's grace in the same manner, emptying of self for fullness of the Holy Spirit's fruits. 

Moses becomes a righteous example for a leader. Because of his pride and sins during the wanderings in the desert, God does not permit Moses entry into the Holy Land. Rather than complain or plead his case, Moses prays for God to choose a strong leader so that His people are courageous and not like sheep. His concern is for his people and not himself. 

Jesus teaches to love our brothers like ourselves and to serve our neighbors before ourselves. This selflessness empties one's self and praises God by putting other's needs first. The selfless become full of peace, love, joy, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, the qualities that never change and are subject to no law. This experience is the moment one becomes a tabernacle, a vessel for the Holy Spirit. 

To be the Christian, flaws included, in this world who practices the "Good News" according to Moses, one must answer the call, if and when God wants and as He wants, until He calls one home. Lastly, the way one lives should model after the man who, at first, reluctantly answers his call. "As Moses passed the baton of leadership to Joshua, he did it with a servant’s heart and the mind of Christ." - Selvaggio, A. T. (2014). From Bondage to Liberty: The Gospel according to Moses. (I. M. Duguid, Ed.) (p. 160). Phillipsburg, NJ: P&R Publishing.

Democracy in America by Alexis de Tocqueville

4 out of 5 stars  ****

Volume I Volume II is written five years later
A thorough explanation of America's geography from Atlantic to Pacific, an explanation of the type of people who started a new government after winning their independence from a Monarchy, failing first with its initial Confederacy, and the thoughtful remedy applied in writing the US Constitution with its Bill of Rights and Separation of Powers between the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial branches, the author compares the United States with other countries and their societies. Where others failed, America succeeded in blossoming due to the type of people isolated from most of the old world by the great oceans.

Explore the Bible: 1, 2 Corinthians by Clint Pressley (Editor ), Micah Carter

5 out of 5 stars  *****

Apostle Paul visits the Greek, Roman-run city of Corinth to, initially, bring the "Good News," the Gospel, to answer disputes between certain leaders of the newly established Church, and then remind the Corinthians that centering their behavior around Jesus Christ's teachings unites them rather than divides them. Paul must defend himself against false teachers who point to his abject poverty and afflictions. The apostle uses this opportunity to praise God in his weaknesses so that he won't boast. He teaches that the grace of God is enough to sustain him. 

Marriage, singleness, and sexual immorality are issues in Corinth and Paul suggests the people stay away from bad, sinful habits that become part of their culture. Paul reminds them that as newly born children of God their behavior displays God's love. They are to have faith in this love to find their peace and joy persevering any obstacles by, once again, returning to the teachings of Jesus Christ.

Paul is a strong character whose ambition is to teach truth about the gospel. He shares his introspection and relationship with the Holy Spirit for a people who, for the first time, are changing their lives and culture according to the morals and lessons of that "Good News." Their adherence to his teachings is a testament to the influence the Holy Spirit has through Paul.

The Collector by Nora Roberts (Goodreads Author), Julia Whelan (Goodreads Author) (Narrator)

5 of 5 stars  *****

A delightful read/listen. From beginning until end The Collector engages with style that produces imagery and clarity. The characters are fitting, likable protagonists and dangerous antagonists. The ideal lives of the successful, fortunate, rich and famous blend nicely with the struggling, adequate, common but formidable. The scenario could be hokey but Nora Roberts avoids the contrived by creating a thrilling plot in which she imbues her characters with real human qualities. The pace keeps one interested throughout the entire story.

Food: A Cultural Culinary History by Ken Albala

5 out of 5 stars  *****

What a glorious trip through history via food choices by peoples throughout the world. The presentation by Ken Albala is upbeat and pleasant. Fascinating subjects can fall flat because of dry narration but not with Food: A Cultural Culinary History. 

Culture spreads easily along temperate longitudinal zones making food introduction to new territories possible. Food becomes a major reason for trade between remote places that offer certain fruits, vegetables, spices, and grains. Nobility arises as the wealthy share new foods at banquets with their affluent friends. Preparation requires employing servers and, most importantly, chefs who work hard to master the art of cooking. This becomes a status of power within the community. 

Cities burgeon as recipes spread among commoners who are healthier because of the variety of food. Different parts of the world develop their own cuisine. The written word preserves the practical manner in which food is grown, harvested, prepared, and enjoyed. 

Food is responsible for the temperament of the citizens of cities relying on climate, soil, and observation. Gastronomy develops out of necessity to feed populations in diverse regions. Agriculture determines whether or not a land is arable enough to sustain people before it applies its knowledge for growing plants and rearing animals.

The style of growing and preparing food, today, evolves from a country's economy since certain crops yield wealth from trade around the world. This limits the variety that the family farm yields and most people eat what is processed according to government regulations. This series of lectures ends with a look into the future that sees society pursuing healthier lifestyles. This may entail more organic foods with locally raised livestock. The informed consumer leads this trend that could very well improve a population's overall well being.

The Hero With a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell, Arthur Morey (Narrator)

4 out of 5 stars  ****

I have a quote by Joseph Campbell that hangs on a plaque by my front door, "We must be willing to get rid of the life we've planned so as to have the life that is waiting for us." This statement implies that there is another plan for our existence other than what we want or choose for ourselves. 

As a Christian, I feel this refers to God's plan; but Campbell contemplates deeper into mankind's psyche. He identifies a need to explain the compulsion we have to journey into unexplained worlds where discovery of dreams and myth have universals, aspects in common, throughout the world in every culture. Much of this classic work is filled with legends and lore of cultures from around the world.

The stories are fascinating, the analysis revealing. The Hero With a Thousand Faces and other books by Campbell show how this topic is his life's pleasure. The final chapters talk about the author and the extent of his study along with the efforts to preserve his published and non-published material. I respect the devotion of this scholar as what he says in this writing is worthy of further thought by those who read, listen, and dream.

The Paradigm: The Ancient Blueprint That Holds the Mystery of Our Times by Jonathan Cahn

5 of 5 stars  *****

Jonathan Cahn presents a comparison between an era in history involving the northern tribes of Israel, and modern day; in particular, the Clintons rise to power until the present. This model of political and religious power is separated by thousands of years and, yet, the coincidence is uncanny.

The main event, which Cahn alludes to in each time frame, is worthy of divine judgment because of its offensive nature to God, the Creator. That event is the killing of innocent children and fetuses. The country's leaders support this practice in a society that trends toward Godlessness.

The Bible provides the paradigm for such a culture in the writings about King Ahab and his pagan wife, Jezebel, who worships Baal. The ancient characters have modern day antitypes in the paradigm. The parallels are amazing. 

Explore the Bible: Personal Study Guide, Acts 13-28 by Danny Akin (Editor), Dwayne McCrary

5 out of 5 stars  *****

I get so much out of this Bible Study series. Every Sunday the Fishers of Men, my study group, meet to talk about a chapter with an appointed leader who uses the teacher's edition of our study guide. This leader prepares each week to engage and explain more than what the class reads in our paperbacks. 

Valuable lessons of life become apparent with our discussions, one person's input enhancing another's perspective. Lessons taught hundreds and even thousands of years ago are still fresh today. It is as if mankind understands but is incapable of maintaining adherence to God's desire for us. This awareness imparts the necessity for such classes. The most difficult aspect in such a group is finding one that is compatible and fun. 

This month's subjects cover biblical scripture from Acts 13 - 28. I learn how "tolerance" is more than perseverance and patience; it is accepting another's point of view even though it is opposite of my own. This act diffuses my anger and frustration over any issue or circumstance where I am confronted about my opinion or perspective. 

Another key lesson is on "gossip." Gossip may cause me to bear false witness to my neighbor. This violates the Ninth Commandment. The ease at which this occurs brings up a healthy discussion about how the News is mainly negative, or bad news. We spread bad news about the world and each other without thinking whom we may hurt. Talking gossip seems to be the antithesis to sharing the Gospel, which is spreading the good news.

Out of our talk we agree that bad news spreads faster and farther than good news because it is particularly interesting to us in a morbid way. A friend suggests it is because we (mankind) are so attached to the flesh and this world. To rise above this we must be more attached to our spiritual side (born again) by being in touch with God's Holy Spirit. We conclude that we cannot do this alone, we need a Savior, Jesus Christ, who died for our sins, our inability to consistently obey the Ten Commandments.

So whether I agree or disagree with any point someone brings up in class, I am, now, tolerant of their point of view and do not try to convert them to my outlook. A debate may ensue but there is never an argument, only another observation presented with love.

The Stolen Sky (Split City #2) by Heather Hansen

5 out of 5 stars  *****

Arden and Dade develop their relationship as a couple in this book. They hardly have time to work on their complex romance as he, an affluent Solizen (elite), and she, an Undercity rebel, are running for their lives throughout the story.

The Stolen Sky abounds with betrayal and perseverance in a dystopian society. The elite families manipulate the government (govies) and the rest of the population by controlling life-sustaining Vitamin D (VitD) and doling out addictive drugs to pacify broken spirits. Dade steals VitD and gives it to the impoverished as the Ghost; hence, the introduction to Arden, the self-sufficient, savvy sister of Niall, leader of Split City's number one antagonist faction, the Lasair.

This thrilling adventure catapults one on missions of rescue and sabotage. Many new characters of significance play roles in Dade and Arden's lives by rescue, healing, and plotting against competing bands of criminals, govies, and families. Through it all, the two protagonists have a virgin trust of each other that the plot continues to test. Trust for anyone else is suspect, at best. Unexpected revelations engross readers while pages turn toward the climax. When that time arrives, one is left wanting more.

Heather Hansen writes this sequel to The Breaking Light with captivating style, an imaginative plot, and most interesting characters. This reader is in the Split City from the very first page until the last.