One of the most beautifully written books that lays the foundation for how to be a better neighbor, a better advocate for others, and a kinder person in general. The author uses straightforward language, and is an excellent teacher, leading the reader by the hand to build his arguments.
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This is one of the best books that I've read, not only on the subject of economics, but on human behavior. Sowell may be a little hard for some to read, but he provides adequate of real world examples of his stances and claims. He explains why oil prices fluctuate, why drugs are so expensive, and why rich people continue to build in high risk areas, such as beach front properties frequently hit by tornados. If you've ever been curious about why the economy functions the way...
Basic Economics: Sowell, Thomas
A dark, underground city ruled by matriachs in service to the evil goddess of chaos, the Spider Queen, Lloth. A young boy, subjected to the cruel machinations of his scheming family, vying for power. His eventual escape and rise to the surface world, only to be met with prejudice because of his racial background. His quest to find his place in the world and the true meaning of family and justice. This is the story of Drizzt, the dark elf. Each page pulls the reader into the world of Faerun, and beyond, and leaves them wanting more.
This simple pamphlet, written in 1870, creates an argument worth considering…how can you be said to have consented to something merely by being born on a piece of land. It argues that the Constitution as it is written can have no binding authority since no one was actually allowed to consent. Hogwash? A stupid argument? The author walks the reader through his well-reasoned thesis, and then discusses how nations, through central banking, are laying the groundwork for endless wars. Pretty prophetic considering the outcomes. It's certainly well worth your time and consideration.
No Treason: The Constitution of No Authority
I hadn't read a book outside of the fantasy genre prior to reading this one in a long time. My best friend prompted me to give it a whirl since he wanted to read it in tandem. I didn't really have any expectations going in, but all I can say is that ... The main character is a former actress named Evelyn Hugo and she's kind of a pastiche of actresses like Elizabeth Taylor, Marilyn Monroe, Joan Crawford, Bette Davis, you know, the classic Hollywood actresses. The book gives a sort of inside look at the machinations and motives of relationships in Hollywood, and a look at how many relationships were conducted out of the public eye. Even though the account is fictional, it feels so real. 10 out of 10, hands down, a great book!
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo: A Novel
I read this series that I found in bits and pieces from different used book stores. I was looking for a change of pace from an author that I hadn't read before, and what can I say, I couldn't put the books down. The writing is brilliant, and the character growth is phenomenal. This book has it all: an unlikely hero, thrilling battles against impossible odds, dimensional travel, magic, and enemies becoming unlikely allies against a greater threat. I hope to one day revisit this series, but if you're looking for a fantasy novel that really pulls you in, this is the book series for you.
Raymond E. Feist: The Riftwar Saga
I was interested in this series with the release of The Golden Compass film and the controversy surrounding it. It was a children's book…or so I thought. The book deals with very adult themes, and some fascinating concepts like an external soul that takes an animal form, parallel worlds, conspiracies at the highest levels, bravery from humble heroes, lovable characters, and then gut-wrenching heartbre... Few books are transformative. This is one that takes from the reader. I mean, it emotionally drains you, but leaves you grateful. As I said, this book series is anything but a children's book. It's so much more, and so worth your time.
His Dark Materials 3-Book Paperback Set
I had been curious about the book ever since I saw the 1984 film adaptation by David Lynch. I loved the political machination and intrigue that kind of reminded me of The Godfather. So I started the series. The concepts were wild with a far flung future grounded in origins on earth. A genetic breeding program seeks to produce the perfect being, and a substance called Spice on the planet Arrakis holds the key to power as everyone depends on it for space ... A prince, caught up in the political intrigue of a tentatively balanced Romanesque empire, takes control of the governorship of Arrakis, and discovers the truth of his origins, and the power that he possesses. The series explores concepts of genetic memory, which I found fascinating, and explores what happens when a leader becomes an eternal being. I highly recommend the series, and it has great social commentary, as well.
Dune Series by Frank Herbert
A friend of mine read Tender is the Flesh by the same author, so I picked this book up on Amazon to give it a try. The description sounded intriguing. Maybe a lot of what makes the book great is lost in translation. The author throws you into a vague setting and doesn't really do a lot to explain what's happening at first, as it is revealed by the principle character as the book goes along. You can... There isn't a lot of food, and the women that the main character lives with have taken refuge in a former monastery, which is now run by a mysterious figure known as The Enlightened. His majordomo is a figure known as the Sister Superior, and there is petty jealously and infighting in among the women in the convent to obtain positions of special privilege known as the enlightened ones. The only catch is…they get mutilated. The book kind of reads like a Clive Barker novel with heavy themes of self-mutilation and sadomasochism. There is a vague explanation that it occurs so that horrible calamities will be kept at bay if the God that they all worship is appeased. I really didn't like it, but finished it nonetheless. I mean, it has some merit as a novel, but there was much too little given to enjoy as a novel, and some confusing themes left open to the reader's interpretation.
The Unworthy | Book by Agustina Bazterrica, Sarah Moses
If you like a good conspiracy theory-based story with fantastic artwork, that'll keep you invested, then this may be the book for you. Reminiscent of Dan Brown's The Da Vinci Code, the book investigates the darker side of religion, and what goes on b...
Rex Mundi Omnibus Volume 1
I absolutely love the Forgotten Realms lore of the Dungeons and Dragons universe, and there is no other place I love more than the Underdark. The Drow culture is fascinating, and this book explores it using several characters, each of which gets their own focus and development. I found myself rooting for Pharaun, a male caught in the matriarch-dominated society of the Drow, who embraces the culture and strives to gain his own sense of power. He's by no means a hero, as his moral compass has been shaped by the Drow, and he's not above scheming and murder to achieve his own ends, but he's a compelling enough character that you feel some sympathy toward him. Each book in the series is written by a different author, but the writing styles blend easily and each author adds to the richness, complexity, and depth of the characters and the story. For me, this series gets a 5 star rating.
War of the Spider Queen
If you’re looking for a comic that feels like a fever dream birthed in a 17th-century cathedral, Guy Davis’ The Marquis is essential reading. Set in the fictional, sin-drenched city of Venisalle, the story follows Vol de Galle, a former inquisitor wh...
If you're a fan of Demon Souls, Bloodborne, Mike Mignola, or horror in general, this graphic novel is for you, and with the amazing art style and story, it's sure to be a treasured favorite of yours just like it is mine. I will, on occasion, give it away as a gift for people that I feel like could use some inspiration to pursue art or writing.
The Marquis
If you’ve already survived the first half of this series, Part II is where the stakes truly explode. While R.A. Salvatore oversaw the project, the beauty of this set is how three different authors bring a unique, gritty flavor to the Drow’s desperate... Paul S. Kemp delivers a masterclass in writing dark, morally grey characters that you can’t help but root for, even when they’re technically the villains. I also love how it explores other Underdark races and societies. This is so good! Don't sleep on this series if you love fantasy.
War of the Spider Queen Gift Set, Part II
If you're looking for innovative, rick storytelling in a comic book form, I highly recommend Fables, by Bill Willingham. Fables introduces you to a world in which fairy tale characters are real, but they must remain hidden, confined to their own culture, in their own city, ran by their own government. Everyone gets along, until a mysterious enemy, cloaked in shadow and rumor, begins to conquer the Fable's homelands, forcing them to flee to the real world. Now the Fables must unite to free their homeland, and to halt the conquest of The Adversary. I get so excited about this series. It's so good. If we were personal friends, I wouldn't be above handing you a copy and starring intently, waiting for you to read it and treat yourself. XD
Fables Compendium One by Bill Willingham
I read this book on the recommendation from a friend. He said that the saw himself in the characters, especially the timid Mateo. I wanted to get to know him and see if I could spot the comparisons. There are some authors that right so well, that you truly become attached to the characters. You feel their joy, pain, triumphs, and sorrows, and you hope against hope for a better future for both, because they deserve to be happy. This book really t...