Grateful American: A Journey from Self to Service by Gary Sinise

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

A great autobiography by a simple man doing significant work to help those in need. Gary Sinise is an accomplished actor, director, film and stage pioneer, activist for servicemen and women and the Fraternal Order of Police. This is besides being a philanthropist, husband, and father. His story tells of his rise from barely passing student to the engaged, thoughtful human being he is today. He impacts so many people around the world. This book reveals how hard Gary works and how successful his endeavors are because of it. 

Calypso by David Sedaris

 

3 out of 5 stars  ***

The Audiobook narration/performance is great and there are some humorous moments but I am not captured by the stories enough to maintain interest.

The Design of Everyday Things by Donald A. Norman, Don Norman, Neil Hellegers (Goodreads Author) (Narrator)

 5 out of 5 stars  *****

The standard for design around the world, Norman writes how the total experience of a product must be considered in its engineering. The "customer first" perspective, Human-Centered Design, drives the goal of making the best, most practical device for public use. The author does an incredible job at explaining the complexities involved in the Design Challenge. What makes his approach so valuable is the psychology and logic applied to everyday objects. Norman teaches future designers how to start the process in a world where technology creates a need for new and improved whatever.

In Touch devotional February 2021 by Charles Stanley

 5 out of 5 stars  *****

Developing and maintaining a relationship with God on a daily basis is easy with Dr. Stanley's devotionals. The wisdom of scripture and the astute knowledge of the author makes February's In Touch a stabilizing force in a world of corruption and chaos. February's issue considers freedom and its obstacles, angst in the face of everyday frustrations, and how to cope by trusting Him when challenged.

Modern Warriors: Real Stories from Real Heroes by Pete Hegseth

 

5 out of 5 stars  *****

Men and women who put their lives on the line in combat halfway around the world explain their motivation and desire to do what they do. Modern Warriors: Real Stories from Real Heroes is an opportunity for these tested patriots to divulge their feelings and observations about today's warfare. The strongest theme throughout their stories is the bond formed between soldiers regardless of their affiliations, color, or gender.
Pete Hegseth does a wonderful job presenting the somber reality of war with the heartfelt dedication these heroes have for one another. The format allows the accounts to be in their own words. This makes each chapter fresh and alive with their life-altering experiences.

Red Rain (Nameless #4) by Dean Koontz (Goodreads Author), Edoardo Ballerini (Narrator)

5 out of 5 stars  *****

Red Rain reveals that the hero in this series, Nameless, is seemingly an intentional manufacture of elite technology and science that manifests approximately two years ago. Before that is a blank memory but since is a razor sharp memory that rivals computer processing for retrieving information. This plot involves an arsonist who is clever when burning his subjects, people. The possible manufacturers of Nameless connect the arsonists presence with the burning deaths of individuals, families, and human collateral. A psychological profile also pins the murders on someone who has a penchant for fire. When Nameless is given his mission he exacts retribution on Evil's unremorseful tool. 
 

In the Heart of the Fire (Nameless #1) by Dean Koontz (Goodreads Author), Edoardo Ballerini (Narrator)

 5 out of 5 stars  *****

A most intriguing protagonist, a man who suffers from amnesia but recalls every detail of current events, is "Nameless." He vaguely remembers his fingerprints being erased with chemicals and plastic surgery. He is aware of a purpose that is directed by his unlimited source of money, equipment, and cases of murderous crimes either forgotten or covered up. Nameless is quite formidable as an opponent because of his supportive employer, his intellect, calm demeanor, and a clairvoyance that allows him to see what either is going to happen or has happened, already.

In the Heart of the Fire starts the Nameless short story series by Dean Koontz. Each book stands alone. They may refer to previous cases but their history is not vital to complete each story; therefore, it is not necessary to read each story in sequence. This first short story takes place in a small town where the law is enforced by the antagonist and his relatives who hold key political positions. They think they are above the law. An unsolved trend of murders alerts the employers of Nameless who direct him there to assure justice is done.