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russellreitsema's reviews
84 reviews
The Wim Hof Method: Activate Your Full Human Potential by Wim Hof
3.5
As someone who has used Wim's techniques, I would say his book does a great job of explaining his story, passion, and philosophy. The back end was a bit wordy in places but the brass tacks techniques and ideas are there for the taking. I am excited for more people to catch on!
Travellers to Unimaginable Lands: Dementia, Carers and the Hidden Workings of the Mind by Dasha Kiper
4.0
This book was an incredibly eye opening experience for me. As someone who hasn't dealt with dementia in any way first hand, I truly valued the expertise and experiences portrayed in this moving epic of love and loss. Please read this.
Fantastic Beasts & Where to Find Them by J.K. Rowling, Newt Scamander
3.0
Not much to say on this that others haven't. it's a short book with a fun premise, Eddie does a great job with the audio and I found myself back in the world of HP that I had tucked away years ago. Great little book of lore and an easy palate cleanser in-between non fictions.
The Sacred Mushroom and the Cross by John Marco Allegro
3.25
This was definitely one of the dryer books I've tackled in recent memory but well worth the investment. A classic I'm told, this book dives deep into the correlation between ancient religions and their texts and the sacred mushroom that this book claims is the basis for a lot of the Bible. A compelling and eye opening read, I was overwhelmed with the ancient language connections and the coincidences that just kept piling up. I will be taking more steps to research this topic for sure.
Before We Forget Kindness by Toshikazu Kawaguchi
2.5
Another installment in what I've dubbed the Java Deja Vu series. I can commend the stories and the fresh attempt at touching at the human condition, but this series just is not giving me anything anymore. I know some find it heartwarming, and perhaps it's just the audiobook narrator, but I am struggling to stay interested and feel like the stories are drawn out and lack that emotional punch that the first and second book did well. I will attempt to finish the series but it's not at the top of the list.
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
3.5
I definitely see the appeal. This novel is first and foremost a testament to our connection to nature and a celebration of what the true beauty of the outdoors can do for a soul. It is also a mystery, a love story, and a coming of age for a girl who I think everyone can find something to relate with. I will be sitting with this one for a while.
Should We Stay or Should We Go by Lionel Shriver
4.0
Shriver was recommended by a friend and I was pleasantly surprised by my aptitude for her writing! This book of alternate endings kept me enthralled as I embraced the social commentary, the fluctuating outlooks on death, life and family, and our own autonomy. The story does take an few strange and whacky turns as we see some of these possible outcomes reveal themselves, but I was able to take them in stride and still maintain my captivation. I'll be sure to embrace her other books in time.
Chapterhouse: Dune by Frank Herbert
3.0
An interesting ending to one of the most influential series to ever be written. I'll admit the last 2 books did not hit the same for me but I enjoyed living in these characters world a while longer. Herbert has a way of keeping you attentive even through a good amount of dry parts. I treasure this book and the entire series.
The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason
3.5
recommended by a friend, this was a bit out of my zone but nonetheless interesting. I see the value in a lot of the financial advice and understand why so many people swear by this piece of investment literature. A concise book of good advice for any generation, I find it interesting that so many of its "teachings" are mostly common sense things people say nowadays. Anyone looking to learn, check it out.
The Ballad of Black Tom by Victor LaValle
2.75
A relatively concise fantastical period piece that doesn't try to overhype but also delivers an engaging narrative. I personally audiobooked this one but struggled to get pulled in to the story. If you are looking for a short pallet cleanser this might be the book for you.