Book Reviews
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, 06-26-2014 at 08:18 AM (5245 Views)
Three well-written, easy to read, and light-hearted stories coupled with some interesting insights from a late older brother
on June 19, 2014
Format: Paperback Verified Purchase
This collection consists of three short stories and a set of letters written to the author by her late elder brother.
The first story, "The Psychiatrist and the Thief" is a story about Dr. Brown who is assaulted by a thief who had
previously kidnapped his secretary. In a story that could have had disastrous consequences, the author skillfully turns around the plot and has the thief apprehended. The theme of this story is: "Crime does not pay." The setting is universal and the events could occur in any business or home.
The two other stories, "Marriage on the Rocks" and "The Undertaker's Wife" both take place in the author's native Trinidad.
The theme of both stories is "Love conquers all." In the first story, the wife, Maria, is discontented when her wealthy husband gambled away all his money and then moves the family from the city to a rural area where he begins farming the land he had inherited from his parents. She leaves her husband and children and goes to the city in search of adventure. When her husband finds her a year later, he is able to forgive her and welcome her back into his life.
In "The Undertaker's Wife", we have a suspicious wife who believes her husband is involved in underhand activity and decides to spy on him. However, she soon discovers that his business is legitimate and that he actually runs a big funeral parlor. The couple reconciles in the end and there is no more suspicion on either part.
These stories are uplifting in that they demonstrate the better part of human nature and show how fulfilling life is when people can forgive one another and live in harmony.
The last portion of this book is non-fiction. These are actual letters written by the author's late elder brother. His letters reveal his personal thoughts and feelings on life. He shares his philosophical and religious views and reveals his own insights.
These letters are a great addition to the collection of short stories since they all deal with human nature. In the stories, the author shows her imagination, creativity, and insight into human character. Reading them helps one restore one's faith in human nature.
I AM CANCER FREE [Paperback Version]
Remarkably detailed, and poignant description of the author's experiences as she was diagnosed and treated for ovarian cancer.
on June 19, 2014
Format: Paperback Verified Purchase
This true story should be read by every person who has been diagnosed with or who has ever suffered from cancer. Their loved ones will also benefit from reading this autobiographical account. The author has an impressive memory for details and gives an excellent account of everything that she went through during that trying period from her diagnosis to the successful treatment of the disease. She narrates, in depth, all her experiences during her treatment, including her personal feelings, her understandable fears, and even financial matters. Displaying an exceptionally lucid memory, she remembers every single person who supported her during that time period and every single little detail including the hurricane that struck Miami after her second chemotherapy session and the inconveniences incurred with regard to electricity in the house and gas for the car. She also remembers in detail every restaurant in which she ate in Miami and everyone who visited her. Her memory of every important date is extremely remarkable.
During all the upheavals, the author never lost her faith in God. Her undaunting faith upheld her and comforted her during this dark period of her life. Her story clearly demonstrates that faith in God surmounts all obstacles.
The book makes easy reading and the style is almost conversational. One gets the feeling that the author is speaking directly to the reader. It is an intensely personal narration and I recommend this book highly.
YOUR TIME IS NOW [Paperback Version]
Thoughtful reflections on the meaning of verses 1 to 8 of Ecclesiastes Chapter 3 of the Bible
on June 22, 2014
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In her characteristic easy to read style, the author provides an insightful interpretation of the 8 verses of Ecclesiastes that were used in the famous song by the Byrds. Drawing on personal experiences, an astounding knowledge of the Bible, general observances and reflections on life, the author examines these verses and presents her interpretation in as clear and understandable a manner as possible. She narrates several stories from her own life to illustrate each verse and shows how her faith helps her to overcome many obstacles and to live a successful and happy life.
This is an inspiring book which clearly shows that when one applies the principles of the Bible to real life, one can get marvelous results. It is an uplifting book and should be read by anyone who wants to restore his or her faith in God or in life in general.
ADVENTURES OF SQUEAKY DOO [Paperback]
Delightful and refreshing children's stories told from the point of view of a teddy bear.
on June 25, 2014
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This collection consists of five stories narrated in the first person by Squeaky Doo, a teddy bear owned by a little girl named Marge. Marge lives with her younger brother and parents in Miami. However, except for the first story which takes place on a beach in Miami, all the other stories are set in different locations. The tales describe adventures in Los Angeles, Orlando, on a cruise trip, and in the author's native island, Trinidad. Squeaky Doo accompanies Marge and her family, including her grandparents, on vacation in these different places. He gets lost in each story and, fortunately for him, is always rescued and reunited with Marge.
Squeaky Doo is an observant bear who never misses any detail of the family's activities. He gives vivid descriptions of a warm and loving family of which he is proud to be a part. Children will surely fall in love with this likable teddy bear and will want to read about all of his adventures. The perspective of the teddy bear makes the stories easy to read and will encourage youngsters of all ages to keep reading to find out what will happen next to Squeaky Doo.