Sunday, May 30, 2021

Explore the Bible: Personal study Guide: Luke 10-24 Spring 2021 by Matt Capps

 


5 out of 5 stars  *****

This bible study asks who one thinks Jesus is. The apostle, Luke, reveals Jesus's ministry in Galilee, Judea, Perea, and Jerusalem to answer this question. Faith is required for salvation and it is strengthened by testing a person's beliefs. Luke covers the ultimate test of love in writing about the betrayal, trials, crucifixion and burial. The study ends with the resurrection, Great Commission, and Christ's ascension.

The bible study keeps the word of God alive and familiar in my life of striving to be my best. Its message is always fresh and rewarding. I am humbled and uplifted.

Sunday, May 23, 2021

Sci-Phi: Science Fiction as Philosophy (Great Courses) by David Kyle Johnson (Goodreads Author)


3 stars out of 5  ***

The subject is interesting but some of the psychological/philosophical explanations are too long verging on the edge of monotony. It is enlightening to hear a scholars analysis of past Sci-Fi movies and novels. Many are fascinating concepts but less fascinating books and movies.
 

Thursday, May 6, 2021

Killing Crazy Horse: The Merciless Indian Wars in America by Bill O'Reilly (Goodreads Author), Martin Dugard (Goodreads Author)

 


5 out of 5 stars  *****


I relish this transportation back to the 1800's to view and contemplate our nation's recent history. The collaboration of O'Reilly and Dugard produces another interesting portrayal of events based on expert investigation and actual documents by government and individual citizens. The writing style places me in Indian Territories with maps that orient my adventure.

The tension of clashing cultures raises moral and ethical questions that are passionately displayed on both sides, Indians versus Predominantly white settlers. Mexico is another player in this actual drama but it is not as aggressive as the New World's latest inhabitants, Americans expanding their horizons to live a better life. Unfortunately, expansion comes at a price that affects everyone it touches.

These chapters depict hardship and sorrow that trace their path from injustice, strife, and revenge. Through it all, good and bad, indominable courage rises in many to meet harsh challenges and overcome crushing obstacles. These people live in infamy, now, because of historians who dedicate their work to be as close to the truth as possible. Such is Killing Crazy Horse: The Merciless Indian Wars in America.
 

Tuesday, May 4, 2021

Down the Rabbit Hole: Curious Adventures and Cautionary Tales of a Former Playboy Bunny by Holly Madison (Author/Narrator)

 


5 out of 5 stars  *****

A pleasant surprise, Holly Madison, subject and narrator, delivers an interesting, cogent description of her experiences and relationships in her young adult life. This memoir reveals that the blond bombshell, ex Hugh Hefner girlfriend , is not just a pretty face. Her thought process shows in the telling of her interactions with celebrity, high society, business and what it takes to maintain such a lifestyle. Holly matures as a woman and an asset in developing and producing her own shows which become hits and are still shown on social media, today.