You probably already know from experience that a bee sting can hurt, but did you know that bee venom can also help? Well, the same goes for book critiques, which are mostly a combinations of both!
My Approach To Critics
I don’t consider myself a professional critic and I’m not making a complete assessment of the entire work of any book. We all have our own rhyme and reason for what makes a book worth reading; however, what I’m specifically honing in on is my honest critic of the lasting impression a book has made if someone were to ask me about something I read over 10 years ago. What I really liked or what I really didn’t like would be all that would remain in my memory. With that said, enjoy!
BOOK CRITIQUES
The Black Count: Glory, Revolution, Betrayal and the Real Count of Monte Cristo by Tom Reiss
Book’s Greatest Gift:
* The book introduces to the world, the unsung hero of the French Revolution, General Alex Dumas (father of novelist Alexandre Dumas).
*New information that was locked away is revealed for the first time that further portrays in historical detail how he was betrayed by Napoleon and the French government.
* Tom Reiss is a gifted, seasoned writer with an amazing grasp of history. He has the ability to take a large amount of information and share it in a conceptual way that gives insight and brings relevance in a larger scope.
Book’s Greatest Challenge:
In this age of ADD, unless the reader is a history buff or is really interested in the subject matter, the majority of people won’t read this book cover to cover because there is just too much information covered in each chapter. I found myself jumping around a bit to get to the meat and then coming back later to previous chapters. This is unfortunate because there are a lot of jewels that can be missed this way.
Talisman of El (Trilogy, Book 1) by Alecia Stone
Book’s Greatest Gift:
This book has a fascinating storyline and is able to draw the reader in. What stood out for me was how consistent the author was in “showing” certain character traits that allowed me to resonate with the main characters. This is the type of trilogy where the reader is most likely to follow up and read all three books. It seems like Stone is just getting warmed up in this first book.
Book’s Greatest Challenge:
I remember feeling left behind when it came to certain scene changes and then having to catch up by going back and reading again exactly where the transition occurred. Also, I remember that the initial development between the characters was lacking not much, but just enough for me to mention it here.
Ecstasy is Necessary: A Practical Guide by Barbara Carrellas
Book’s Greatest Gift:
The author does an excellent job explaining how important ecstasy is for a healthy life and how it can be achieved with or without sex. Carrellas actually “scientifically proves” that an orgasmic state can be achieved just through breathing. I loved the author’s use of stories and easy exercises to assist you in defining your authentic sexual self. This book serves as a powerful tool in defining and compassionately communicating what is most important for you to live an ecstatic life.
Book’s Greatest Challenge:
This book has something to offer almost anyone, but not everyone will get it. What I mean to say is, anyone that might be too shy or turned off by the topic of erotica will miss a great opportunity to put their fears and prejudices aside to gain much needed insight. And anyone who is looking for a book on quick sex tricks or how to improve their external erotic focus will be disappointed to find out that this book is more about the internal journey one takes to find ecstasy.
APE: Author, Publisher, Entrepreneur How to Publish a Book by Guy Kawasaki and Shawn Welch
Book’s Greatest Gift:
Kawasaki & Welch waste no time getting right to the point and hold nothing back in terms of what you need to know to go “APE.” The book serves as a guide to e-publishing and is chock full of useful tips and resources for writers breaking into the publishing market. Combining the expertise of two experienced authors, it’s a great resource to have.
Book’s Greatest Challenge:
I was so thankful and yet so overwhelmed by all the information in this book. It takes a lot to embrace all that is required to become successful in this new era of book publishing that has the potential to level the playing field for many a would be authors. The book calls many to the task. The question remains how many (or few) will choose?
Book’s Greatest Gift:
This has to be the most original memoir I’ve ever read. Asante skillfully weaves together the story of his hard knock life (thus far) growing up in “Killadelphia” and there’s nothing cliché or borrowed about this first time author’s poetic and eclectic writing style. The book portrays what the hypocrisy and contradictions of the elders can create in the life and minds of the youth while also pointing to the potential healing that can take place. A great accomplishment!
Book’s Greatest Challenge:
I loved reading and had no problem keeping up with the flow of this “new jack memior.” However, I still found myself reminiscing on the “old school” style of memoir. You know, the ones with the slower pace and familiar points of reference. I’m not sure if this is just a generational difference, yet either way, there is much to be gained by reading this book. I just hope others from my generation and older will feel the same way.